• 10
  • October
    2011

The Social Security Administration (SSA) will no longer be sending the handy "Your Social Security Statement" benefit summaries in the mail. The change comes as a cost cutting move that the SSA estimates will save $90 million in 2011-2012.

The statements provided a section on the amount of benefits you would be eligible to receive if you needed to file for Social Security Disability (SSD). Another section listed the amount of Family and Survivors' Benefits your child and/or spouse would receive based on your earning record if you were to die in the near future. The family maximum benefit was also listed.

Where to go for Information Now

Currently, if you want to receive an estimate of your potential SSD benefits, you will need to do so on-line at ssa.gov. Several calculators are available. You can use the quick calculator to obtain a rough estimate by providing your date of birth and current year's earnings. The site also includes two detailed calculators, which require earnings records from all prior years.

The SSA website also provides a variety of additional useful tools. You can complete your application for social security disability, check the status of your claim or appeal an SSA medical decision on the site. Various forms and publications are also available on the web-site. It is important to note however, that before you complete any claims or appeals that you consult with an experienced attorney.

What is Missing?

The mailed statements listed your earnings record for each year you earned income. Under the new policy, you can no longer review your earnings record. This reality sparks concerns that the SSA may not correctly calculate your benefits. If an error existed on the statement of benefits, you could correct it by filing a Request for Correction of Earnings Record. Currently, it is much more difficult to determine whether there is an error that needs correcting.

Under the on-line system, it may be more difficult to catch errors and you may want to keep your own detailed earning records. Contact an attorney if you need assistance in determining whether your SSD benefits estimate is correct.