Critter Corner: What the SSA Wants You to Know During National Social Security Month   

Dear Ribbit, 

I am getting ready to retire, and want to make sure I make the most of my Social Security benefits. What are some things I should know and actions I should take? 

Thanks, 

Ben Afitts 

—- 

Dear Ben, 

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has declared April National Social Security Month, and the agency believes that now’s the right time to do some retirement planning. SSA has four things it wants to make sure people know about and do to prepare for retirement and understand exactly how Social Security can help them get there, as follows: 

1. Make sure the SSA has your earnings correct 

The SSA keeps records of your earnings history in order to calculate your benefits correctly. Social Security payments are based on the top 35 years of your earnings after indexing for inflation, so accurate information is critical to avoid getting less than you deserve. 

In order to check your earnings history, the SSA urges Americans to create what’s called a “mySocial Security” account, where you’ll find your personal information and can check to ensure its accuracy. If there are mistakes, you’ll have the chance to contact the SSA to have the situation fixed. 

2. Get an estimate of how much you’ll receive from Social Security 

Calculating your benefits can be tricky. However, the SSA provides a number of calculators and other tools to help you estimate what your Social Security income will be under various situations. 

3. Learn how to apply for benefits 

The SSA’s online system makes applying for benefits much easier. You can apply not just for retirement or disability benefits, but also for Medicare using the SSA’s online application system. That makes things as convenient as possible for those seeking benefits. 

4. Keep the SSA informed of changes 

Finally, the SSA wants you to understand the need to manage your benefits over your lifetime. If you move, need to change your payment or direct deposit information, or want a benefit verification letter for credit purposes, then the SSA offers those options. You just have to keep up and ensure that Social Security can keep track of you and be there when you need it. 

Be Smarter About Social Security 

By following the steps above, you’ll get a much better understanding of what Social Security will bring to the table when you need it. 

Hop this is helpful, 

Ribbit