By Brenda Brown
Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Fayetteville, NC
On July 4, people in communities everywhere celebrate our nation’s independence with neighbors, family, and friends. A strong community promotes independence by helping each
other lead full and productive lives. Social Security has been helping people maintain a higher quality of life and a level of
independence for over 80 years. Over those decades, we have made it even easier for you to access the programs and benefits you might need. Now, applying online is the fastest way to get
those crucial benefits.
Here are some the types of benefits you can apply for
Retirement or Spouse Benefits – You must be at least 61 years and 9 months
old and want your benefits to start no more than four months in the future. Apply
at www.socialsecurity.gov/retireonline.
Disability – You can apply online for disability benefits or continue an
application you already started. Apply for Disability at
www.socialsecurity.gov/disabilityonline.
Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Costs – Many people need
assistance with the cost of medications. Apply for Extra Help at
www.socialsecurity.gov/i1020.
Medicare – Medicare is a national health insurance program administered by the
U.S. federal government that began in 1966. You can apply online or continue an
application you already started at www.socialsecurity.gov/retireonline.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) – SSI is a federal income program
funded by general tax revenues designed to help aged, blind, and disabled
people who have little or no income. You may be able to apply online if you
meet certain requirements. See if you can apply online for SSI at
www.socialsecurity.gov/ benefits/ssi.
Social Security provides benefits for millions of people including wounded warriors and
children, the chronically ill and the disabled who cannot work. Find the help you or your family
need at www.socialsecurity.gov/ benefits.
Do not forget, our many online services can provide you and the ones you love with lifelong
independence. From replacing a lost Social Security card to estimating your benefits, you can
access these powerful tools at www.socialsecurity.gov/onlineservices.
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