Q & A
What is the “Ticket to Work” program?
Complete Question: With all the disability discussion in the news, I was wondering if people on disability have an option to try to work? I’ve heard about “Ticket to Work”, but don’t really know what it is. Answer: The Social…
My ex-husband works…will those earnings reduce my spousal benefits?
Complete Question: I am filing to receive ex-spouse Social Security benefits. I was told by a friend of mine that her benefits are reduced because her husband works and makes too much money. I know my ex-husband works. Will his…
How do I know if I’m considered “disabled” by Social Security standards?
Complete Question: I have had a lot of difficulty maintaining a job because of an illness. My friends and family keep telling me to file for disability, but I’m not sure if I qualify. Is there a way to find out…
My husband is very ill and he doesn’t have life insurance…
Complete Question: I’ve been a stay-at-home mom most of my life and have not earned enough to receive Social Security benefits. My husband receives Social Security, so I get a small percentage of his benefits. Recently, he became very ill.…
I’m ready to file for my benefits…now what?
Complete Question: I’m 63 years old and after looking at my financial situation, I decided it would be best to start receiving my Social Security benefits in April of 2015. What should I do now? When do I file and…
I want to work part-time while getting Social Security…will I pay Social Security taxes?
Complete Question: I want to work part-time while receiving Social Security benefits. I’m assuming that since I’m retired (I’m 66 years old) and getting my benefits, I won’t have to pay any more Social Security taxes on my paycheck. Is…
What’s the difference between WEP and GPO?
Complete Question: I know a government pension affects Social Security benefits in some way, but what’s the difference between WEP and GPO? How do I know which one applies to me? Answer: You are right that government pensions affect Social Security…
Why am I paying a Medicare premium? Didn’t my taxes cover that?
Complete Question: I’m signed up for Medicare for 2015 for the first time and I was told I’ll be paying a premium of $104.90 per month. I’m really confused. I knew I had to pay for prescription drug coverage, but…
What’s the difference between SSI and SSDI, and what should I apply for?
Complete Question: I need to file for disability, but I don’t know if I should file for SSI or SSDI. What’s the difference? Answer: SSI stands for “Supplemental Security Income” and SSDI stands for “Social Security Disability Insurance” and they both…
When I file for benefits, will they be the same the rest of my life?
Complete Question: I will be eligible for Social Security benefits this year. I am supposed to be able to receive $1,700/month, which sounds okay to me. But I doubt I can live off of that amount in 10 years. Will…