Social Security

AARP Social Security Calculator

When will you claim your Social Security retirement benefits?

"For many of us, Social Security is the most important part of our retirement picture, and deciding when to claim is a big decision. The amount of your benefit will depend on your average income over your working years, your spouse’s average income and the age at which you claim benefits.

This calculator will help you decide when to claim and show you how to maximize your benefits."

Use the following link to take advantage of this AARP tool.

AARP - Social Security Planning

"The AARP Social Security Resource Center is as an online retirement-planning tool designed to help you figure out your eligibility for Social Security payments, when you can get them, and how much you and your family can receive. In this section you’ll find easy-to-understand answers on eligibility topics including:

• Who is (and isn’t) covered by Social Security.
• Criteria to qualify for retirement, disability, spousal and survivor benefits.
• Enrolling in Medicare.
• Social Security options for people living (and retiring) abroad.

Use the web link to visit the AARP Social Security Resource Center.

Social Security

Go to this website to apply to receive any of the following Social Security benefits:

Retirement:

Whether you need help deciding when to retire or are ready to start the next chapter in your life, we have the tools you need to get started. No need to visit an office — estimate your benefits, apply for retirement, and check your application status online.

Disability:

If the unexpected happens, Social Security may be able to help. We pay disability benefits to those who can’t work because they have a medical condition that’s expected to last at least one year or result in death. Find out how Social Security can help you and how you can manage your benefits.

Medicare:

Medicare is our country’s health insurance program for people 65 or older. Certain people younger than age 65 can qualify for Medicare too, including those with disabilities and those who have permanent kidney failure. Social Security works with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to ensure the public receives the assistance they need.

Survivors:

If you lose a loved one, we are there to help you get through the difficult time. We pay survivors benefits to widows, widowers, and to the dependents of eligible workers. Find out more about how we help protect you and your family.

Supplemental Security Income:

We are with those who need a helping hand. The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program provides support to disabled adults and children who have limited income and resources, as well as people age 65 and older who are not disabled but have limited income and resources.

Social Security - FAQs

Most frequently asked questions:

How much will the COLA amount be for 2023 and when will I receive it?

How can I get help from Social Security?

What should I do if I receive a call from someone claiming to be a Social Security employee?

How do I change or correct my name on my Social Security number card?

How do I schedule, reschedule, or cancel an appointment?

How do I apply for a replacement Social Security number card online?

What should I do if I get a call claiming there's a problem with my Social Security number or account?

What happens if I work and get Social Security retirement benefits?

How much will the COLA amount be for 2023 and when will I receive it?

How can I get a Social Security Statement?

Applying for Social Security Benefits

Ways to Apply

You can complete an application for Retirement, Spouse's, Medicare or Disability Benefits online.

If you cannot submit your application online:

You can call us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778); or
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, visits to our offices are by appointment only for certain services. Please visit our Coronavirus page to see if you may be eligible for an in-person appointment.

If you live outside the U.S. you can contact the Federal Benefits Unit that provides service to your country of residence.

Social Security Administration (Arizona Office)

Retirement insurance, survivors' insurance, SSI, disability insurance and Medicare. Arizona Office.

AARP - 5 Things You Need to Know About Finances When Turning 65

"It’s a pivotal age for retirement planning — even if you aren’t ready to retire yet."

"Gone are the days when most people retired at 65, received a gold watch, then lived off their pension and full Social Security benefits. But 65 is still an important age financially for retirees and near retirees, in terms of both what you get and what you don’t."

Check out this article from AARP for some hints and tips on actions you need to be considering when approaching. 65.