Maximize Your Benefits: 21 Hidden Social Security Benefits Waiting for You

When you think about Social Security, you likely think about money for when you stop working. But there are other helpful things it offers too. These include help for people who can’t work because they are sick or hurt, money for families when someone dies, and programs for people who don’t have much money. If people don’t know about these things, they might not get the help they need to live a better life.

A lot of people don’t know that Social Security can help people who are disabled, families who have lost someone, and people with low incomes. In 2023, around 65 million people in America got some kind of help from Social Security. Many more could get help if they knew about all the things Social Security offers.

This article will show you the helpful things that Social Security does that many people don’t know about. You will learn about 22 different ways Social Security could help you be better off financially and in your personal life.

What service are you most surprised to learn about? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Disability Benefits Beyond Retirement

Social Security is not just for retirees. Social Security also gives money to people with problems that make it hard to work. This money is for people who cannot work because of a health problem that has lasted, or is expected to last, for at least a year

If you are able to get this help, it can be very important. It gives you money and can help you get medical care. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can be very helpful for people who cannot work regularly but have worked long enough to be able to get this help.

Survivor Benefits for Family Members

When a family member who has paid into Social Security passes away, survivors may be eligible to receive benefits. These payments can help spouses, children, and even dependent parents. 

The amount depends on various factors, including the deceased worker’s earnings and how many family members are applying. The survivor benefits offer significant financial support to those left behind, helping families to meet their needs without losing critical income during a difficult time.

Many people are unaware of these benefits until they are in a situation where they could be helpful, making it important to understand them in advance.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for Low-Income Individuals

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is another important plan from Social Security. It helps people who don’t have much money or things, like older people and people who are blind or can’t work because of a sickness or injury.

SSI gives money each month to help pay for basic things like food, clothes, and a place to live. To get SSI, you need to have very little money, not based on your work history.

Many people think SSI is the same as Social Security money for retired people, but it is not. SSI is a different plan that helps people with very low incomes.

Assistance for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

Grandparents who take care of their grandchildren might be able to get Social Security payments. To get this money, the grandchild must rely on the grandparent for support, and the grandparent needs to have worked long enough to earn credits. This can be a big help with money, especially for grandparents who don’t have much money coming in.

It is important to know that not everyone will get these benefits; there are rules to follow. If grandparents who are raising their grandchildren understand these rules, it can be easier for them to get the help they need.

Social Security Statements and Earnings Record

Staying informed about your Social Security account is essential for planning your financial future. The Social Security Administration provides an online tool that allows you to view your earnings record and see estimates of your future benefits. 

This can help you make informed decisions about when to retire or how much you might expect in disability or survivor benefits. Reviewing your earnings record regularly also helps you ensure there are no mistakes that could affect your benefits later. 

By understanding what is included in your Social Security Statement, you can better prepare for retirement or any unexpected life changes.

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Social Security’s Role in Helping the Homeless

Social Security partners with organizations to assist homeless individuals in accessing benefits. Homeless individuals may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), depending on their situation. 

Community resources can help them understand their eligibility and assist with applications. While Social Security doesn’t directly provide housing or healthcare, it can connect individuals to these services. 

Collaborating with local agencies enables Social Security to support homeless individuals, ensuring they access available benefits.

International Benefits for Americans Living Abroad

Many are unaware that Social Security benefits can go to Americans living outside the U.S. If you qualify, you can get your retirement, disability, or survivor payments, even when living abroad.

Some rules depend on your location, but Social Security tells which countries work and how to apply from abroad. This is key for those retiring or living overseas.

Fraud Prevention and Identity Protection Services

Identity theft is a growing concern, especially regarding Social Security numbers. The Social Security Administration takes steps to protect individuals from identity theft and fraud. They offer services to report fraud, replace lost Social Security cards, and monitor misuse of Social Security numbers. 

These measures help ensure that your identity and benefits are secure. Knowing how to protect your Social Security number and what to do in case of theft can help prevent long-term financial problems.

Benefits for Self-Employed Workers

Self-employed individuals might think they are ineligible for Social Security benefits, but that’s not the case. By paying self-employment taxes, these workers contribute to Social Security, just like employees. 

Self-employed people can qualify for retirement, disability, and survivor benefits based on their contributions. Many self-employed workers don’t realize how important these contributions are. They ensure access to Social Security benefits later in life. 

Keeping accurate records and paying taxes on time is essential to securing future financial support through the Social Security system.

Support for Veterans

Veterans may qualify for Social Security benefits in addition to Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) programs. Veterans who worked and paid into Social Security are eligible for the same benefits as other workers. 

Certain programs may expedite benefits for those who served, particularly those with service-related injuries. It’s important for veterans to understand the range of benefits available. 

The combination of Social Security and VA benefits can provide valuable financial and healthcare support.

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Ticket to Work Program

The Ticket to Work program is designed for individuals who receive Social Security disability benefits but want to return to work. This program offers free employment services, vocational training, and job referrals to help disabled individuals find and maintain employment without immediately losing their benefits. 

The goal is to help people transition back into the workforce while ensuring they remain supported during the process. This is an empowering option for many, offering both financial independence and continued security.

Social Security’s Education and Outreach Efforts

The Social Security Administration is actively engaged in educating the public about the various benefits and services it offers. Through workshops, online resources, and partnerships with local organizations, Social Security aims to increase awareness of its programs. 

These efforts help ensure that people know their rights and can access the benefits to which they are entitled. This education can be particularly helpful for underserved communities or those who may not have easy access to government resources.

Help with Medicare Enrollment

Many people don’t realize that Social Security plays a critical role in Medicare enrollment. Social Security is the agency that handles enrollment for Medicare Part A and Part B, which cover hospital and medical insurance. 

If you are approaching the age of 65, Social Security can guide you through the process of signing up for Medicare, ensuring that you get the healthcare coverage you need in retirement. 

Enrolling at the right time can help avoid penalties or gaps in coverage, making this an essential service for future retirees.

Retirement Planning Tools and Calculators

Planning for retirement can be overwhelming, but Social Security offers several helpful online tools. These tools include calculators that help estimate retirement benefits, decide the best time to retire, and figure out how working during retirement affects benefits.

These tools are free and available to everyone, making it easier to make smart decisions about retirement. Knowing what to expect can make you feel more confident and ready for your retirement years.

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Lump-Sum Death Benefit

When a family member dies, Social Security provides a lump-sum death benefit. This one-time payment of $255 helps with immediate expenses related to the death. Eligible family members, such as a spouse or child, can apply for this benefit to offset funeral costs. 

Although small, the benefit can offer some financial relief in a difficult time. Many are unaware of this payment until they need it, so it’s important to know it exists. The lump-sum death benefit isn’t automatically distributed. 

Family members must apply for it within two years of the individual’s death. Understanding the process for claiming this benefit can prevent missed opportunities for much-needed financial assistance during a stressful period.

Compassionate Allowances Program

The Compassionate Allowances program fast-tracks disability benefits for individuals with severe medical conditions. Only specific illnesses qualify, such as certain aggressive cancers or rare disorders, based on the Social Security Administration’s list. This program is designed to reduce wait times for those in critical need.

Through this initiative, Social Security aims to provide financial assistance faster to those with the most debilitating conditions. Knowing which conditions qualify can help applicants in dire circumstances access support more quickly.

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Social Security for Caregivers

Caregivers do not automatically earn Social Security credits for caregiving duties alone. For eligibility, caregivers must meet work-history requirements or other criteria connected to the person they care for. 

This ensures that caregivers with qualifying work experience can still receive Social Security benefits. Many caregivers put their own financial needs aside to care for loved ones. 

Understanding Social Security’s rules helps caregivers plan their future benefits without compromising their financial security.

Social Security’s Online Tools for Disability Appeals

Social Security offers online tools to simplify the disability appeals process. Individuals who wish to appeal can use the Social Security website to submit documentation and check the status of their claims. 

While not all appeals can be processed online, these tools reduce the need for office visits. Using these online resources makes the appeals process faster and more accessible. These tools can help individuals stay informed and better manage their claims.

Maximum Family Benefit Limit

The Maximum Family Benefit limits the total amount a family can receive based on one worker’s record. This cap prevents multiple family members from exceeding a certain percentage of the worker’s benefits. 

The limit applies only to families with multiple dependents receiving benefits based on one worker’s earnings record. This provision doesn’t impact all families, but it’s crucial for larger families to understand. 

Planning around this limit can help families manage their Social Security benefits more effectively.

Social Security for Non-Citizens

Many non-citizens who have paid into Social Security can receive benefits, even if they move abroad. Certain international agreements allow legal immigrants to collect benefits after leaving the United States. Eligibility may vary depending on the destination country and other residency requirements.

Understanding these rules can help non-citizens secure benefits after years of contributions. These agreements enable non-citizens to access Social Security support globally, ensuring their work counts toward future benefits.

Social Security’s Direct Express® Card

For individuals without bank accounts, Social Security offers the Direct Express® card. This prepaid debit card allows beneficiaries to receive payments directly without needing a traditional bank. 

The card can be used for purchases, bill payments, or ATM withdrawals, providing flexibility and security. The Direct Express® card is especially beneficial for those who find managing bank accounts challenging. 

It eliminates the need for paper checks or direct deposits into a bank, ensuring fast and reliable access to Social Security benefits. This option brings financial independence to many who otherwise might struggle to receive their payments.

Maximizing Social Security’s Full Potential

Social Security is much more than just a retirement program. Its range of services, covering disability benefits and even support for families, can make a huge difference in many lives. Be it raising a grandchild, managing a disability, or planning for retirement, understanding these options is key. 

By being aware of these lesser-known benefits, you can better prepare for life’s unexpected challenges and make more informed decisions about your financial future.

Don’t let valuable support go untapped, take full advantage of what Social Security has to offer!

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AI was used for light editing, formatting, and readability. But a human (me!) wrote and edited this.