You can apply as early as age 62, but your benefit amount will be permanently reduced if you claim before your full retirement age (FRA). FRA depends on your birth year (between 66 and 67). Waiting until age 70 increases your monthly benefit.
Before FRA: You can earn up to $23,040/year ($1,920/month) without reducing benefits. Above that, $1 is withheld for every $2 earned over the limit.
Year you reach FRA: You can earn up to $61,320/year ($5,110/month) before reductions. Above that, $1 is withheld for every $3 earned over the limit, only until the month you reach FRA.
After FRA: No earnings limit.
Non-blind: $1,550/month gross income is considered substantial gainful activity (SGA).
Blind: $2,590/month gross income is considered SGA.
Trial Work Period months (TWP) are counted if earnings are over $1,110/month in 2025.
Retirement & Medicare applications: Usually processed in 2–6 weeks.
Disability applications: Initial decisions average 3–6 months, but can take longer depending on evidence and state processing times.
SSDI: Based on your work history and payroll tax contributions.
SSI: Based on financial need, with strict income and resource limits, regardless of work history
Yes, but your earnings may affect your benefit amount if you are under FRA (retirement) or if you exceed SGA limits (disability). See 2025 limits above.
No. You can apply directly through SSA.gov, but some people choose to hire a representative if their case is complex or if they’re appealing a denial.
You can request a replacement card online at SSA.gov in most states or by visiting your local SSA office with the required identification.
Log in to your “my Social Security” account at SSA.gov or call 1-800-772-1213.
Medicare is health insurance for people 65+ and certain people with disabilities. Social Security is a monthly cash benefit program. Many people qualify for both.
If you are married, you may be able to receive up to 50% of your spouse’s full retirement benefit, even if you’ve never worked under Social Security yourself. Your spouse must be receiving their benefits for you to claim spousal benefits.
Yes, if you were married for at least 10 years, are currently unmarried, and are age 62 or older, you may qualify for benefits on your ex-spouse’s record. Additional rules apply if your ex-spouse has not yet applied for benefits.
Yes, eligible family members (such as your spouse, ex-spouse, or children) can receive survivors benefits. The amount depends on your earnings record and their relationship to you.
SSA periodically reviews disability cases to ensure you still meet medical and work requirements. Reviews can be every 6–18 months for cases expected to improve or every 5–7 years for cases considered permanent.
No, you will generally receive the higher of the two benefits, not both.
If you wait past your full retirement age to start benefits (up to age 70), your monthly benefit increases by about 8% for each year you delay.