According to Reuters, paper Social Security benefit statements, which used to be mailed every year, will now be coming back partially.
The news service reported that the Social Security Administration (SSA) will resume mailings at five-year intervals to workers who have not signed up to view their statements online. The statements will be sent to workers at ages 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55 and 60.
In addition, the SSA will continue to allow people to view benefits online. The agency stopped mailing paper statements in 2011 in response to budget pressures, which saved it $70 million annually, according to Reuters.
The statements are a reminder to workers of what they can expect to get back in the future, including information about monthly benefits at various claiming ages and data about disability claims. The statements also explain how benefits are calculated.
The SSA reported that so far only six percent of all American workers have signed up for benefit statement information through the agency’s website.
Advocates indicated they would like to see more done as far as reminding people about benefits.
“It’s a step in the right direction,” said Nancy Altman, co-director of Strengthen Social Security, an advocacy group, according to Reuters. “But the mailings shouldn’t be limited to workers who haven’t signed up (for) online accounts. Just because people have signed up, it does not mean that they revisit it to check their earnings statements.”
What Is the Difference Between SSI and SSDI?
Some people who suffer from disabilities are eligible to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI benefits are based on a person’s work history. For further information on qualifications, we suggest you visit our FAQ page.
There are many differences between these two programs. SSI receives funding through general tax revenues rather than Social Security trust funds, like SSDI. Additionally, disabled people who have reached retirement age are not eligible for SSDI benefits.
If you have further questions about Social Security benefits or your eligibility status, contact our attorneys today.
Troutman & Troutman, P.C. – Tulsa Social Security Disability lawyers
Troutman Touts: The SSA may conduct a Continuing Disability Review (CDR) every few years if a person’s disabilities are expected to improve.
Source: http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/04/19/us-social-security-idUSBREA3I0GL20140419
