May 29th, 2014

Disability Benefits for Family Members

Fred London Law 0 Comments Uncategorized

What if you become disabled before you retire and you are unable to continue working to support your family? Social Security has you covered with disability benefits.

If you have a disability that is expected to last a year or longer, or result in death, you should apply for disability benefits. Your work and taxes cover not only you, but your entire family, too. Family benefits can include retirement, disability and, in the event of your death, survivors benefits. This coverage includes everyone in your family who depends on you for support, such as your minor children who are under age 18, or age 19 if still in secondary school, as well as your spouse. It also can include older children who have severe disabilities that began before age 22. In some cases, parents and grandchildren can qualify for family benefits if they depend on your income and you are their only means of support.

If you want to learn more about how Social Security benefits the younger members of your family, please call our office toll free 888-977-3435.

May 29th, 2014

What is a Social Security “credit?”

Fred London Law 0 Comments Uncategorized

Answer:
During your working years, earnings covered by Social Security are posted to your record. You earn Social Security credits based on those earnings. The amount of earnings needed for one credit rises as average earnings levels rise. In 2014, you receive one credit for each $1,200 of earnings. You can earn up to a maximum of four credits a year. Most people will need 40 credits (or 10 years of work) to be eligible for retirement benefits. Learn more by reading the online publication How You Earn Credits
at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs.