Social Security Q&A: How To Check Status Of Retirement Benefits Application
Question: How can I check the status of a pending application for retirement benefits?
Answer: If you applied for retirement or disability benefits online, you can check the status of your application at http://www.socialsecurity.gov by selecting “Benefits” and “Check Application Status” under “Apply.” You will need to enter your Social Security number and the confirmation code you received when you filed online.
Your application status will show:
■ The date we received your application;
■ Any requests for additional documents;
■ The address of the office processing your application; and
■ If a decision has been made.
Q: Can I refuse to give my Social Security number to a private business?
A: Yes, you can refuse to disclose your Social Security number, and you should be careful about giving out your number.
But be aware, the person requesting your number can refuse services if you don’t give it.
Businesses, banks, schools, private agencies, etc., are free to request someone’s number and use it for any purpose that doesn’t violate a federal or state law.
To learn more about your Social Security number, visit http://www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber.
Q: What is the maximum Social Security retirement benefit?
A: The maximum benefit depends on the age you retire.
For example, if you retire at full retirement age in 2015, your maximum monthly benefit would be $2,663. However, if you retire at age 62 in 2015, your maximum monthly benefit would be only $2,025. If you retire at age 70 in 2015, your maximum monthly benefit would be $3,501.
To get a better idea of what your benefit might be, visit the online Retirement Estimator at http://www.socialsecurity.gov/retire/estimator.html.
This column was prepared by the Social Security Administration. For fast answers to specific Social Security questions, contact Social Security toll-free at 800-772-1213 or visit http://www.socialsecurity.gov.
