Living 50 Plus - Social Security - October 2014

Living 50 Social Security Edition october 2014

plus

A SUPPLEMENT TO leader publications

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Living 50 Plus • Social Security • October 2014

What’s inside 3 Social Security questions & answers 4 Let’s talk about Medicare

We’re your neighbors and your friends For over one hundred years, you have turned to us for honest advice, sincere compassion, and caring support. You can count on us to help you plan a personal, lasting tribute, and guide you through the many decisions that must be made during this challenging time.

5 For 1 in 4 seniors: Help paying for meds 6 Medigap versus Advantage?

It depends on your priorities 8 Tips for the 2015 Medicare annual enrollment period

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Living 50 Plus • Social Security • October 2014

Question: How can I protect myself against identity theft?

Answer: First, don’t carry your Social Security card with you. Keep it secure at home with your other important papers. Second, don’t readily give out your Social Security number. While many banks, schools, doctors, landlords, and others will request your number, it is your decision whether to provide it. Ask if there is some other way to identify you in their records.

If you are the victim of identity theft, you should report it right away. To report identity theft, fraud, or misuse of your Social Security number, the Federal Trade Commission (the nation’s consumer protection agency) recommends you: 1. Place a fraud alert on your credit file by contacting one of the following companies (the company you contact is required to contact the other two, which will then place alerts on your reports): • Equifax, 1-800-525-6285; • Trans Union, 1-800-680-7289; or • Experian, 1-888-397-3742.

2. Review your credit report for inquiries from companies you have not contacted, accounts you did not open, and debts on your accounts you cannot explain; 3. Close any accounts you know, or believe, have been tampered with or opened fraudulently; 4. File a report with your local police or the police in the community where the identity theft took place; and 5. File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-438-4338 (TTY 1-866-653-4261).

Social Security

Q&A

gov/disabilityssi/appeal.html.

Q: Does Social Security provide special services or information for people who are blind or visually impaired?

A: Yes. Social Security offers a number of services and products specifically designed for people who are blind or visually impaired. If you are blind or visually impaired, you can choose to receive notices and other information from Social Security in ways that may be more convenient for you. To find out more about this service, go to our page, If You with Vonda VanTil, social security expert Are Blind Or Visually Impaired — Your Choices For Receiving Information from Social Security, at www.socialsecurity.gov/notices or call our toll-free number for more information at 1-800-772-1213, ment benefits are not counted and will not affect from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. your Social Security benefits. Most pensions will Many of our publications, such as brochures and not affect your benefits. However, your benefit fact sheets, are available in Braille, audio cassette may be affected by a government pension from work on which you did not pay Social Security tax. tapes, compact discs, or in enlarged print. Our publication, If You Are Blind Or Have Low Vision For more information, visit our website at www. socialsecurity.gov or call us toll free at 1-800-772- — How We Can Help, and other publications in alternative formats can be obtained by calling, toll1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). free, 1-800-772-121 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). For more information, see our page Public Information Q: How do I earn a Social Security Materials in Alternative Media at www.socialsecuCredit? rity.gov/pubs/alt-pubs.html.

A: Social Security credits, sometimes referred Q: How do I know if I’ve worked long to as quarters of coverage, are the measure of your work under Social Security. You earn Social Secu- enough to get Social Security disability rity credits when you work and pay Social Security benefits? taxes. The credits are based on the amount of your A: To get Social Security disability benefits, earnings. In 2014, you receive one credit for each $1,200 of earnings, up to the maximum of 4 credits you must meet the definition of disability under Q: Can I conduct my Social Security per year. Each year, the amount of earnings needed the Social Security Act and you must have worked business online in the event of a hurrilong enough—and recently enough—under Social for a credit goes up slightly as average earnings cane or other disaster that keeps me levels increase. Generally, a person needs 40 cred- Security to qualify for disability benefits. from visiting an office?

The amount of work you need to qualify for its or 10 years to be eligible for retirement benefits. disability benefits depends on your age when There are special rules for the self-employed.

A: Yes, you can conduct most of your business you become disabled. Generally, you need 10 Read more about self-employment and Social with Social Security online at www.socialsecurity. Security in our online publication, If You Are Self years of work, and that must include workgov, where you will find a wealth of information ing 5 out of the last 10 years, ending with the Employed, available at www.socialsecurity.gov/ and services. For example, you can create or access pubs. year you become disabled. However, younger your own mySocialSecurity account, apply online workers may qualify with as little as one and To learn the amount of earnings required for for Social Security benefits or Medicare and check Social Security credits for prior years, see Quarter one half years of work earned in the three-year period ending when the disability starts. See our the status of your pending application. If you’re of Coverage at www.socialsecurity.gov/OACT/ Disability Planner at www.socialsecurity.gov/ already receiving Social Security benefits, you can COLA/QC.html dibplan/dqualify3.htm for credit requirements at change your address, phone number, or your direct different ages. deposit information, get a replacement Medicare Q: How can I apply for Supplemental card, or get an instant proof of income letter. You Security Income (SSI)?

Q: I want to apply for Extra Help with also can get your Social Security Statement online.

Medicare prescription drug costs. Can Your statement lets you check and verify your A: If you are applying for SSI based on a disearnings record and see estimates of your future ability, you can start the process by going online to state agencies also help with my Medicare costs? benefits. You also can find out if your local office complete the disability report at www.socialsecuis open at www.socialsecurity.gov/emergency. That rity.gov/disabilityssi/ssi.html. Then you can call us A: When you file your application for Extra site lists any office closings and delays. toll free at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) Also, make sure you receive your benefits elec- to schedule an appointment with a Social Security Help with Medicare prescription drug (Medicare tronically. While the mail can be disrupted during Part D) costs, you also can start your application representative. When you meet with a representasevere weather or other emergencies, electronic process for the Medicare Savings Programs—state tive, bring the items listed in our online publicapayments arrive in your account on time, all the programs that provide help with other Medicare tion, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), availtime, no matter what. Go to www.socialsecurity. costs. When you apply for Extra Help, Social able at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs. Even if you gov/deposit to sign up or get more information.

Security will send information to your state unless do not have all of the things listed, apply anyway. you tell us not to on the application. Your state will The Social Security staff in your local office can Q: I’m retired and the only income I contact you to help you apply for a Medicare Savprovide guidance to help you get the information have is from an Individual Retirement ings Program. you need.

Account (IRA). Are my IRA withdrawals considered “earnings?” Could they To apply for Extra Help and learn more, visit Q: I was turned down for Supplemental reduce my monthly Social Security benwww.socialsecurity.gov/extrahelp.

Security Income (SSI) can I appeal the efits? decision?

While we’re on the subject of open seasons, the A: No. We count only the wages you earn from open enrollment period for qualified health plans A: If you disagree with a decision made on a job or your net profit if you’re self-employed. under the Affordable Care Act is November 15 to your SSI claim, you can appeal it. Learn more Non-work income such as annuities, investment February 15. Learn more about it at www.healthabout appealing a decision, including how to income, interest, capital gains, and other governsubmit your appeal online, at www.socialsecurity. care.gov.

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Living 50 Plus • Social Security • October 2014

Let’s talk about Medicare

By Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

N

ewly eligible Medicare beneficiaries and current beneficiaries who are considering changes to their Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage) plan, should act now. The Medicare open enrollment period runs from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7.

The Medicare Part D prescription drug plan is available to all Medicare beneficiaries to help with the costs of medications.

Joining a Medicare prescription drug plan is voluntary, and participants pay an additional monthly premium for the prescription drug coverage.

While all Medicare beneficiaries can participate in the Medicare Part D prescription drug plan, some people with limited income and resources may be eligible for Extra Help to pay for monthly premiums, annual deductibles and prescription copayments. The Extra Help is estimated to be worth about $4,000 per year. Many Medicare beneficiaries qualify for these big savings and don’t even know it.

To figure out whether you are eligible for the Extra Help, Social Security needs to know your income and the value of any savings, investments, and real estate (other than the home you live in). To qualify, you must be receiving Medicare and have: • Income limited to $17,235 for an individual or $23,265 for a married couple living together. Even if

your annual income is higher, you still may be able to get some help with monthly premiums, annual deductibles, and prescription co-payments. Some examples where your income may be higher include if you or your spouse: • Support other family members who live with you; • Have earnings from work; or • Live in Alaska or Hawaii; and • Resources limited to $13,440 for an individual or $26,860 for a married couple living together.

Resources include such things as bank accounts, stocks, and bonds. We do not count your house or

car as resources.

You can complete an easy-to-use online application or get more information by visiting www. socialsecurity.gov/medicare. To apply by phone or have an application mailed to you, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213.

Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You can write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525 or via email at vonda. vantil@ssa.gov.

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Living 50 Plus • Social Security • October 2014

For 1 in 4 seniors: Help paying for meds

T

By ROBIN ERB Detroit Free Press

ens of thousands of Michigan seniors — 1 in 4 Medicare beneficiaries, according to federal estimates — are leaving millions of dollars on the table because they haven’t asked for Extra Help.

That’s the name of a Medicare program, also known as Medicare’s Low Income Subsidy (LIS), that shrinks out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs under Medicare Part D, the drug plan for those who don’t otherwise have drug coverage.

Once a person is approved for Extra Help, his or her insurer is notified, and the beneficiary gets financial help paying a Medicare drug plan’s monthly premium, yearly deductible, coinsurance and copayments.

Melissa Simpson, a program manager at the National Council on Aging, said many seniors simply don’t know the program is available. Others might feel overwhelmed by yet another piece of paperwork to fill out.

“If you don’t ask, the answer is ‘no.’ And if you do Still, she said, it can mean thousands of dollars apply, you may get some pretty important support.” in help.

Consumer advocates, such as those at the Medi“You’ve got a 50-50 shot” if you apply, she said. care and Medicaid Assistance Program, can help

seniors apply.

In general, you may qualify if you are a single person with an income less than $17,505 and resources and less than $13,440 per year or a married person living with a spouse (and no other dependents) and income less than $23,595 and resources less than $26,860 per year.

Those levels may change in 2015 when the federal poverty levels are adjusted. But if you’re awarded Extra Help this fall, your Extra Help is active through 2015, Simpson said.

Another note: Your resources don’t include a home, vehicle, household items, burial plot, up to $1,500 for burial expenses (per person), or life insurance policies.

Beneficiaries who got Extra Help this year, but whose level of assistance is changing their copayments in 2015, should receive a notice this month with the new copayment amounts. If they receive no notice, they will receive the same level of Extra Help in 2015.

To learn more about Extra Help, call MMAP at 800-803-7174 Monday through Friday, or visit www.NCOA.org.

To determine whether you are eligible for benefits for Extra Help or other federal benefits as a senior, visit www.benefitscheckup.org. (MCT)

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Living 50 Plus • Social Security • October 2014

Medigap versus Advantage?

It depends on your priorities

By ROBIN ERB Detroit Free Press

C

hoosing the Medicare coverage that’s right for you means balancing cost against access and convenience.

And the first choice may be whether — and if so, how — to supplement Original Medicare, the tax-funded Part A Medicare program that covers hospitalizations and the Part B Medicare that is funded by individual premiums and generally covers outpatient services.

Beneficiaries can choose from Advantage plans and Medigap plans to help with out-of-pocket costs that aren’t covered by A and B. And they might want to add a drug plan, too.

Medicare Advantage plans are provided by private insurers and they add to coverage by Original Medicare Plans A and B. Most in Michigan operate as managed care networks, such as a health maintenance organization. A limited network might bother some.

Others — especially those with complex or chronic medical conditions — might find comfort knowing their care is, at least in theory, better communicated and coordinated among a smaller group of providers.

“Advantage is really designed to help coordinate

the members’ care,” said Wayne Wilson, vice president of senior products for Grand Rapids-based Priority Health, which this year offers five Medicare Advantage plans and five Medigap plans.

Seeking care outside of your Advantage network, except in emergencies, can cost a whole lot more under an Advantage plan, however.

Medigap plans have benefits, too. Generally, there are no network limitations.

Also known as Supplemental Plans, Medigap plans, like Advantage plans, are offered by private insurers.

While premiums vary widely among both Medi-

gap and Advantage plans, Medigap costs tend to be more expensive than Advantage plans. But Medigap helps cover co-pays that can add up quickly, especially for consumers who frequently are in the hospital or doctor offices.

Medigap may work well for “the member who is willing to pay more (in premiums), but essentially has no out-ofpocket costs and no network limit,” Wilson said.

Consumers have a one-time, six-month Medigap open enrollment period that starts the first month the consumer turns 65 and is enrolled in Part B. After that enrollment period, the cost can be much higher depending on health issues and age.

Again, plans vary significantly, so it’s important to check out all the options, Wilson said.

When it comes to prescription drug coverage, it’s usually included in Advantage plans, but make sure you check. And Medigap doesn’t cover prescription drugs.

Consumers might consider purchasing Part D coverage, as well. More than two dozen plans are available in Michigan this year.

Consumers who buy an Advantage plan can’t be sold a Medigap plan. (MCT)

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Living 50 Plus • Social Security • October 2014

Tips for the 2015 Medicare annual enrollment period

I

f you’re 65 or older, you probably know that the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period runs October 15 through December 7. Generally, this is the only time you can make changes to your coverage.

According to Herb Fritch, president of CignaHealthSpring, a leading health service company and Medicare insurance provider, here are some things to consider: • Determine priorities. Make a list of priorities — such as lowering out-of-pocket costs — and use it to compare plans.

• Understand the different parts. Part A refers to hospital insurance. The amount of the deductible depends on the length of the hospital stay.

Part B refers to basic medical insurance for doctor visits and other health care services. Medicare pays 80 percent of approved charges while you pay 20 percent in addition to a monthly Part B premium and annual deductible which will vary based on your income. Supplemental plans like Medigap and Medicare Advantage can help cover the 20 percent gap and most offer extra benefits.

Part C refers to plans operated by private companies that combine Part A and B benefits. Most include Part D prescription drug coverage, offer no or low monthly premiums, and extras like vision, dental and gym membership benefits.

Part D refers to Prescription Drug Plans offering at least a standard level of coverage set by Medi-

care; some are available as stand-alone plans.

• Do your research. Benefits differ from company-to-company and even state-to-state, so do your research. Look beyond premium cost to ensure there aren’t hidden copays or fees that will end up costing you more. Pay close attention to medication quantity limits and make sure your plan offers adequate drug coverage.

• Pay your Medicare Part B premium. Even if you’re enrolled in a private Medicare plan, you must continue paying your Part B premium. If you’re having trouble, contact your local Medicaid office to see if you qualify for a Medicare Savings Program.

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Living 50 Plus • Social Security • October 2014

worked when you were 65 may not be best when you’re 75. Plans also change year-to-year so review before renewing.

• Know your network. Many plans offer choices with a network of doctors. If you visit a doctor out of network, you could be responsible for out-ofpocket costs. However, networks offered by Medicare Advantage choices, such as Cigna-Health-

Spring, can foster better coordination among doctors, leading to better care. Ask your doctors what plans they accept or check your network directory.

• Don’t worry about the Exchanges. With a few exceptions, Medicare will be a better option than the Exchanges (also called “Marketplaces”). In fact, it’s illegal for someone to sell you an Exchange plan if they know you have Medicare.

• Use free resources. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ Plan Finder helps you compare costs, covered medications and other items.

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Living 50 Plus • Social Security • October 2014

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Living 50 Plus • Social Security • October 2014

You don’t need to be a techie to use Social Security online

By Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

change your address and phone number, and start tions about our programs, and find out all you want or update direct deposit information. Besides being to know about Social Security from our webpages safe, convenient, and secure, it is easy to set up an and online publications. ou don’t have to be a techie or take a account, so join the millions who already have one.

Social Security has been online for 20 years, and computer course to use Social Security’s there is so much you can do from the comfort of online services. They’re so easy to use, your own home that wasn’t even a consideration 20 You can apply for benefits, get anyone can do it! Just visit www.socialyears ago. Perhaps we owe a debt of gratitude to answers to some of the most the techies. But, our online services are so easy to security.gov/onlineservices and you’ll see what we mean. frequently asked questions use, you don’t have to be a techie to take advantage What exactly can you do online? A lot. Open a about our programs, and find of the best online services in government.

Whether you’re a techie or a technophobe, we mySocialSecurity account at www.socialsecurity. out all you want to know about hope to serve you online soon at www.socialsecurigov/myaccount. You can use a my SocialSecurity Social Security from our web- ty.gov. account to access your Social Security Statement to ensure that the earnings posted are accurate, since pages and online publications.

Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist earnings are the basis of retirement benefits. You for West Michigan. You can write her c/o Social also can get estimates of future retirement, disability, and survivor benefits you or your family may You can do other things at www.socialsecurity. Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St NE, receive. If you already receive Social Security ben- gov as well. You can apply for benefits, get an- Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email at vonda. efits, you can get benefit verification letters, swers to some of the most frequently asked ques- vantil@ssa.gov.

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Living 50 Plus • Social Security • October 2014

Trick, don’t treat, cyber criminals

By Vonda VanTil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

K

ids and kids at heart look forward to the end of October, when we use tricks and treats in equal measure to celebrate Halloween. No doubt, you’ll be passing out treats to costumed hobgoblins and hooligans in your neighborhood this Halloween night. Be careful that you’re not fooled by a different kind of trickster looking for a larger handout — such as your identity.

October also is Crime Prevention Month and National Cyber Security Awareness Month, the perfect time to remind you to safeguard your personal information—whether it’s online, on paper, or given out in person. Don’t share your personal information, such as your full name, date of birth, mother’s maiden name, and your Social Security number, with anyone unless you are certain it is safe. Shred paperwork that includes personal information before throwing it out, never reply to emails claiming to be from Social Security and asking for such information and don’t carry your Social Security card or number with you. These tips should help reduce your risk of identity theft.

Identity theft is one of the fastest-growing crimes in America. If you think you’ve been the victim of an identity thief, you should contact the Federal Trade Commission at www.ftc.gov/bcp/ edu/microsites/idtheft or you can call 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338); TTY 1-866-653-4261.

Learn more about identity theft by reading our publication, Identity Theft And Your Social Security Number, available at www.socialsecurity.gov/ pubs.

Be cautious of tricksters trying to steal more than a sack of candy. Being the victim of identity theft can be horrifying. Enjoy the treats, but avoid the tricks.

Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You can write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email at vonda.vantil@ ssa.gov

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Page 13

Living 50 Plus • Social Security • October 2014

Frequently asked questions about Social Security retirement benefits STAFF REPORT All of the information contained in this question and answer article was gathered at the official Social Security website. For more information, visit the website at ssa.gov.

How do I apply for Social Security retirement benefits?

People should apply for retirement benefits three months before they want their payments to begin. The easiest and most convenient way to do so is by using the online application at ssa.gov.

Certain documents may be needed in order for Social Security to pay benefits. If applying online, a list of needed documents will appear at the end of the application, along with instructions on where to submit them.

Documents applicants may be asked for are: • Original birth certificate or other proof of birth. Applicants may also submit a copy of their birth certificate certified by the issuing agency.

• Proof of U.S. citizenship or law-

ful alien status if the applicant was not born in the United States.

• A copy of U.S. military service paper(s) (e.g., DD-214 — Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) if the applicant had military service before 1968.

• A copy of W-2 form(s) and/or self-employment tax return for last year.

People can also apply: • By phone at 1-800-772-1213 or 1-800-325-0778 Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

• In person at a local Social Security Office. Remember to call first to make an appointment. The closest office is in Benton Harbor at 455 Bond St. The phone number is 1-877-405-5457.

When can I get Social Security retirement benefits?

People can begin getting Social Security retirement benefits as early as age 62. But Social Security will reduce the benefits by as much as 30 percent below what a person would get if they waited to retire until full

retirement age, which is age 66 for most people. A person can get full benefits at the full retirement age. You also can wait until age 70 to start benefits. Then, Social Security will increase your benefit because you earned “delayed retirement credits.”

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

You can get Social Security retirement benefits and work at the same time. However, if you are younger than full retirement age and make more than the yearly earnings limit, Social Security will reduce your benefit. Starting with the month you reach full retirement age, Social Security will not reduce your benefits no matter how much you earn.

• Social Security uses the following earnings limits to reduce your benefits: If you are under full retirement age for the entire year, Social Security deduct $1 from your benefit payments for every $2 you earn above the annual limit. For 2014, that limit is $15,480.

• In the year you reach full retirement age, Social Security deducts $1 in benefits for every $3 you earn above a different limit, but it only counts earnings before the month you reach your full retirement age.

If you will reach full retirement age in 2014, the limit on your earnings for the months before full retirement age is $41,400.

Starting with the month you reach full retirement age, you can get your benefits with no limit on your earnings.

The earnings limits amounts for 2015 are not yet available. We will post the 2015 information on our website when we receive it.

A Retirement Age Calculator and Retirement Earnings Test Calculator are located online at ssa.gov.

Use our Retirement Age Calculator to find your full retirement age based on your date of birth.

When figuring out how much to deduct from your benefits, Social

See FAQs page 15

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Living 50 Plus • Social Security • October 2014

Schedule Of Social Security Benefit Payments 2015 JANUARY 2015 S M T W T F 1 2 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 12 13 14 15 16 18 19 20 21 22 23 25 26 27 28 29 30

S

M

5 6 12 13 19 20 26 27

S

M

5 6 12 13 19 20 26 27

APRIL 2015 T W T 1 2 7 8 9 14 15 16 21 22 23 28 29 30 JULY 2015 T W T 1 2 7 8 9 14 15 16 21 22 23 28 29 30

F S 3 4 10 11 17 18 24 25

F S 3 4 10 11 17 18 24 25 31

OCTOBER 2015 S M T W T F 1 2 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 12 13 14 15 16 18 19 20 21 22 23 25 26 27 28 29 30 Benefits paid on

S 3 10 17 24 31

S 3 10 17 24 31

Birth date on

Second Wednesday 1st – 10th Third Wednesday

11th – 20th

FEBRUARY 2015 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

MAY 2015 T W T

F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

S 1 8 15 22 29

M 1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 29

F S 6 7 13 14 20 21 27 28

JUNE 2015 T W T F S 2 3 4 5 6 9 10 11 12 13 16 17 18 19 20 23 24 25 26 27 30

S

M

S

AUGUST 2015 M T W T F

SEPTEMBER 2015 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

NOVEMBER 2015 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

DECEMBER 2015 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

S

M 2 9 16 23 30

MARCH 2015 T W T 3 4 5 10 11 12 17 18 19 24 25 26 31

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Beneficiaries receiving benefits prior to May 1997 or receiving both Social Security benefits and SSI payments

Fourth Wednesday 21st – 31st Please allow three additional mailing days before contacting the Social Security Administration to report nonreceipt of your payment.

Social Security Administration SSA Publication No. 05-10031 ICN 456100 Unit of Issue - HD (one hundred) January 2014 (Recycle prior editions) Printed on recycled paper

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Living 50 Plus • Social Security • October 2014

FAQs continuted from page 13 Security counts only the wages you make from your job or your net profit if you’re self-employed. Included are bonuses, commissions and vacation pay.

Social Security does not count pensions, annuities, investment income, interest, veterans or other government or military retirement benefits.

Your benefits may increase when you work. As long as you continue to work, even if you are receiving benefits, you will continue to pay Social Security taxes on your earnings.

However, Social Security will check your record every year to see whether the additional earnings you had will increase your monthly benefit. If there is an increase, a letter will be

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sent telling you of your new benefit amount.

If you receive benefits and are under full retirement age and you think your earnings will be different than what you originally told Social Security, let them know right away. You cannot report a change of earnings online. Call them at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) between 7

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What is the average monthly benefit for a retired worker?

The average monthly Social Security retirement benefit for January 2014 was $1,294. The amount changes monthly.

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Living 50 Plus • Social Security • October 2014

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