What You Should Know About Social Security
What comes to mind when you hear anything about social security? If you’re like most people, it almost instantly causes thoughts of stress and frustration to say the least. Indeed, social security has its fair share of red tape. However, at some point, most of us will all have to deal with it. Social Security first began as simply a retirement program. (https://www.ssa.gov/history/hfaq.html) The social security act was signed on 8/14/45. Since then, it has grown into the multi-level business/service program that could be known as one of the most complicated and confusing organizations to ever dance with.
Most people don’t know it, but the social security administration is actually an independently owned agency of the US Federal Government. (ssa.gov) But no matter who runs the whole thing, the important thing to remember is that it is here to help us all. People of all ages and all walks of life can be eligible for various programs and/or benefits offered. If you would like to know if you are eligible, it takes no more than a simple phone call to your nearest social security office to get answers to your questions.
Although it can all be rather intimidating, there are lots of informative and educational resources out there for you to learn more. For example, most libraries have information about different programs and services that people can be eligible to apply for. There are booklets, websites, people to call, and more to help guide you thru the social security maze. If you are someone that does not have access to a computer or one without internet service, you can go use one at the library. Computers are free to use at your local library and you can even apply online for most benefits.
If you have questions and concerns, go to the social security website at www.ssa.gov. It is best to find out information for yourself and not always just take others’ word for it. Sometimes the information friends and family offer are unbeknownst to them, either wrong or misleading. So, with that being said, just go to the source to make sure you get the correct information the first time. This will save you a good deal of time and energy in the long run. Thankfully, if you prepare yourself, you can get thru the social security game and even win sometimes.
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