Fraternity-Testvériség, 1959 (37. évfolyam, 1-12. szám)
1959-03-01 / 3. szám
FRATERNITY 9 PROBLEMS ABOUT SOCIAL SECURITY Question: When I reach age 65 and retire next month I will file for social security benefits for myself and my two minor children. My wife who is much younger will file on the basis of having these minor children in her care. What proofs will we need to bring when we file? Answer: You should bring your social security number, proof of your age and proof of your recent earnings. You should also bring your chilren’s birth certificates. If possible, your wife should come along with you. Question: Will I need any proofs other than proof of my age and recent earnings for my social security retirement claim? What about my wife and children? Answer: Sometimes other proofs are needed. The exact proofs needed will depend on the circumstances. If your wife is filing at the same time, proof of marriage may be needed. If you or your wife were married previously, proof of the termination of the former marriage may be required. When there are minor children, their birth certificates should be brought in. If any of the children are adopted children, a copy of the adoption papers would be necessary. Question: After filing for social security benefits, when should I report if it appears that my total earnings may run over $1200.00 during the year? Answer: As soon as it appears that you will earn in excess of $1200.00 during the year you should report to the social security office. Count as earnings all bonuses, commissions, fees, and vacation and holiday payments, as well as wages and self-employment income. Question: At the time I became entitled to social security benefits I was not working and did not expect to return to work; however, I have recently been offered a job that pays $150.00 a month. When should I report to the social security office? Answer: After you have accepted the job and it appears you will earn in excess of $1200.00 for the year, you should notify the social security office. In this way your benefits will be withheld while you are working. When you are no longer working your payments can be resumed by again notifying the social security office. Question: I understand that I am allowed to make $1200.00 a year without losing any social security benefits. Do I figure this $1200.00 total earnings from the month when I first filed for benefits or must I count earnings for the entire year? Answer: You must count your earnings for the whole year in order to decide how many benefit checks will be due you in that year. This is true even in the year in which you first file your claim. Question: I am four years older than my husband and I am fully insured on my own work record. Can I receive my benefits when I am 62 even though my husband will be only 58 at that time? Answer: Yes, if you wish to accept reduced benefits on your own wage record.
