Ian Bronson
Social Security does more than most people think, yet many of its most helpful services go unused. These tools can help with planning, saving time, and avoiding extra costs. If you’ve only focused on monthly checks, it’s time to explore what else is available behind the scenes. Here are 10 valuable services you may not know exist.
Replace Your Social Security Card Online
A Social Security card can be replaced in most states through your “My Social Security” account. It’s free, takes under 10 minutes, and doesn’t require visiting an office. This service works even if your card is lost or stolen.
Estimate Your Retirement Age With The Full Retirement Age Tool
This tool shows when you’re eligible for full benefits based on your birth year. It helps you see how early retirement affects your payout. It also highlights common filing mistakes and offers tips to plan your retirement age wisely and confidently.
Apply For Medicare Without Signing Up For Social Security
At age 65, you can get Medicare Part A and Part B without claiming Social Security. This allows you to delay retirement benefits and increase your monthly payout later. Medicare Part A is often premium-free, and the application process is online.
Check And Correct Your Earnings History Online
Social Security tracks your lifetime earnings to calculate benefits. Mistakes can lower your payout, but you can review and correct your record online. Errors are more common than most think. Checking it yearly protects your future benefits and retirement planning.
Claim Benefits As A Divorced Spouse
If your marriage lasted 10 years or more, you might qualify for up to 50% of your ex-spouse’s Social Security. Your claim doesn’t affect their benefits, and they won’t be notified. Even if they’ve remarried, you may still be eligible.
Use Work Incentives While Receiving Disability Benefits
Social Security allows you to work temporarily while receiving disability benefits. You can test your ability to work for 9 months and still receive payments. Medicare coverage can continue for 93 months. However, special rules apply if you’re self-employed.
Apply For Survivor Benefits After A Loved One Dies
Widows or widowers and children may qualify for survivor benefits based on the deceased’s work record, even without retiring. Benefits are available as early as age 60 or 50 if disabled. Stepchildren and even ex-spouses may be eligible.
Apply For SSI Without A Work History
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) offers monthly support to low-income individuals who are 65 or older, blind, or disabled, even with no work history. Funded through general taxes, not payroll contributions, it helps with food, housing, and more. Some states even boost benefits with additional payments for qualifying residents.
Use The Extra Help Program For Prescription Drug Costs
This federal program helps low-income Medicare recipients get up to $6,200 in savings yearly on prescription drugs. It can lower premiums, deductibles, and copayments. Many eligible people never apply, but it’s an underused but valuable support for managing medication costs in retirement.
Serve As A Representative Payee For Someone In Need
You can manage benefits for someone unable to do it themselves, like a child or a disabled adult. The SSA trains and monitors payees. Over 8 million Americans use this option. However, you must pass a screening and file yearly accounting reports.
