Fraternity-Testvériség, 1958 (36. évfolyam, 1-11. szám)
1958-01-01 / 1. szám
18 FRATERNITY PROBLEMS ABOUT SOCIAL SECURITY Question: I am 59 years old and worked about 3Vi years under Social Security. (1) If I don’t work any more, can I draw? (2) Can aliens draw Social Security? Answer: No. You need to work a total of 17 calendar quarters, and you have worked only 14 quarters. (2) Yes. Question: I am 58 years old and am still working. Some years ago I lost my right eye and my good eye is failing me so that I can no longer work as a machinist. I have been offered other work which pays less money. Am I not entitled to Social Security disability benefits? Answer: The Social Security disability requirements are very strict. You can meet the requirements only if you are so severely disabled that you are not able to engage in any substantial work. As you are still employed, it is very doubtful that you could qualify. Question: I am drawing my Social Security and I find it is not enough to live on. Answer: Social Security was designed to supplement other savings — not to provide complete financial support. Individuals can draw both Social Security and old-age assistance, provided they meet the State’s needs test. Question: I have earned Social Security on my own. When I retire, will I get my own in addition to what I am entitled to as a wife? Answer: No. You will receive whichever benefit is larger. Question: Is it possible for me to draw disability benefits on my husband’s Social Security? My husband died three years ago and was self-employed. Answer: No. Only the wage earner or self-employed individual and disabled children of eligible wage earners or self-employed individuals are eligible for disability benefits. Question: I am past 65 and get only $30 per month. I am crippled with polio. How can I get enough to live on? Answer: You might qualify for old-age assistance administered by your State. This is a welfare program and eligibility is based on need. Question: I am 63 years of age and wish to go south because of my wife’s health. Up to now, I have earned enough to receive the full amount when I am 65. Would it be possible for me to pay into Social Security the next two years, so when I become 65 I may collect the full $108.50? Answer: No. It is not possible for anyone to make payments into Social Security if he is not working or self-employed. However, because of your age and the drop-out provisions of the law, you would be eligible to draw $108.50 per month if you were paid $4200 in the years 1955 and 1956, even if you do no work after 1956.
