Social Security law is a complex, constantly changing area of law that affects millions of people. With countless rules and regulations, it can be hard to know where to start when it comes to understanding it. To make navigating the law easier, here are the top 5 key points that everyone should know about Social Security law.
1. Eligibility for Benefits
To be eligible for Social Security benefits, you must be at least 62 years old and have worked for at least 10 years. There are also special considerations for disabled individuals and spouses of deceased workers who may qualify for benefits. Additionally, your earnings must have been above a certain threshold over the course of your working years.
2. Amount of Benefits
The amount of money you will receive in Social Security benefits is based on your earnings in the years leading up to your retirement. Generally, the more you earned, the higher your benefits will be. Additionally, if you wait to claim benefits past your full retirement age, your benefits will increase.
3. Medicare
If you are eligible for Social Security benefits, you are also eligible for Medicare. Medicare is a government health insurance program for individuals aged 65 and older, as well as certain disabled individuals. With Medicare, you can receive coverage for hospital stays, doctor visits, prescription drugs, and more.
4. Cost of Living Adjustment
Social Security benefits are adjusted for inflation each year. This is known as the cost of living adjustment, or COLA. This ensures that the value of your benefits does not decrease over time. The COLA is determined by the Consumer Price Index, which measures the average change in prices of consumer goods and services.
5. Social Security Taxes
Social Security taxes are taxes that are taken out of your paycheck. These taxes fund the Social Security program and are used to pay benefits to retirees and other beneficiaries. Currently, the rate of Social Security taxes is 6.2% of wages up to the maximum taxable wage base.
Conclusion
Social Security law is a complex area of law that affects millions of people. Knowing the basics of the law can help you understand your rights and make more informed decisions about your retirement. The top 5 things to know about Social Security law are eligibility for benefits, amount of benefits, Medicare, cost of living adjustment, and Social Security taxes.