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Life in the USA Retirement and Aging Social Security
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How Social Security Works
The Social Security System is administered by the Social Security Administration, a federal agency. Subject to some minimal earnings requirements, most people who work qualify for Social Security retirement benefits based on the legally mandated contributions they have made with every paycheck during their working careers. You must apply for Social Security benefits, since they do not begin automatically. The later in life you apply, the higher the amount you receive. The Social Security System has offices everywhere, all of which provide information, assistance and numerous free publications. You are at all times entitled to information on your current Social Security account and the benefits you should expect to receive. What you will be paid by Social Security depends on your income. The amount can range from a few hundred dollars to more than $1,000 per month, with the average being between $500 and $600. Social Security also pays certain limited disability and survivors benefits if you should die. If you keep working after beginning to collect social security, your benefits may be partially reduced, depending upon your age.
Next Section: How Medicare Works Retirement and Aging: Chapter Home
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