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Social Security programs are integral to the financial stability of millions of Americans, providing retirement income, disability assistance, and support for survivors. To help you better understand these programs, we’ve compiled key insights from a recent webinar hosted by Kim Stephens, a Public Affairs Specialist with the Social Security Administration (SSA).

This guide covers the basics of Social Security, including retirement benefits, disability assistance, survivor support, and essential updates for 2025.

What Is Social Security and How Does It Work?

Social Security is a federal program funded by payroll taxes under the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA). These funds support various benefits, including:

• Retirement Benefits: Based on your lifetime earnings and work history.
• Disability Insurance (SSDI): For those unable to work due to a qualifying disability.
• Survivor Benefits: Providing financial support to the family members of deceased workers.

To stay updated, visit the SSA’s official Social Security Basics page.

Retirement Benefits: What You Need to Know

Social Security retirement benefits are available to individuals who meet specific criteria:

• Work History: You need 40 credits (roughly 10 years of work). In 2025, one credit equals $1,810 in earnings.
• Full Retirement Age (FRA): Varies based on your birth year. For individuals born after 1960, FRA is 67.
• Early Benefits: You can start receiving benefits at age 62, but at a reduced rate of 25–30%.

Calculate your potential benefits using the SSA’s Retirement Estimator.

Disability Benefits (SSDI)

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides benefits to workers who can no longer engage in substantial work due to a disability.

• Eligibility: Requires a recent work history and a disabling condition expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
• Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA): For 2025, SGA is set at $1,620 per month.
• Trial Work Period: SSDI recipients can attempt to return to work without losing benefits under specific conditions.

Learn more about SSDI and how to apply at the SSA’s Disability Benefits page.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSI is a needs-based program for individuals with limited income and resources. Key factors include:

• Income Limits: In 2025, the federal benefit rate is $967 per month for individuals and $1,450 for couples.
• Resource Limits: Assets must not exceed $2,000 for individuals or $3,000 for couples.
• Children and SSI: Parental income and resources are considered for minors under 18.

To explore SSI eligibility, visit the SSA’s Supplemental Security Income page.

Survivor Benefits: Support for Families

When a wage earner passes away, Social Security provides financial assistance to eligible family members.

• Spouses: Benefits start as early as age 60 (or 50 if disabled).
• Children: Can receive benefits until age 18 or 19 if still in high school.
• Survivors’ Lump-Sum Payment: A one-time payment of $255 may be available to a surviving spouse or children.

For more details, visit the Survivors Benefits page.

Appealing Social Security Decisions

If your Social Security application is denied, you have several appeal options:

1. Reconsideration: A new examiner reviews your case.
2. Hearing by an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): A formal hearing with a judge.
3. Appeals Council Review: A review of the judge’s decision.
4. Federal Court Review: The final level, requiring legal representation.

Act promptly, as you generally have 60 days to file an appeal. Learn more about the process on the Appeals Information page.

Additional Resources

To help you navigate Social Security programs, here are some additional tools and resources:

• Social Security Statements: Review your earnings record and benefits at My Social Security.
• Benefit Calculators: Estimate benefits with SSA’s Calculator Tools.
• FAQs: Browse common questions on the Social Security FAQs page.

Stay Informed

Understanding Social Security programs is essential for making informed decisions about your financial future. Regularly check SSA.gov for updates and reach out to your local SSA office for personalized assistance.

If you have any questions or need advice about how your benefits may be affected by working, Achieva Family Trust's Benefits Counseling offers no-cost consultations.