Retirement Insurance Benefits

Name	Retirement Insurance Benefits - Social Security
Non-Financial Eligibility Conditions	You must be 62 years old for early retirement at reduced benefits. The age to receive full benefits is changing. It will depend on when you were born. Near retirement? Check with Social Security about your options. You must be also "fully insured". Your insured status is determined by your work and earnings history. Generally this means that you worked 10 years in jobs covered by Social Security.
Income Eligibility Conditions	If you are under 65, you can earn up to $12,960 per year (as of 2007) without any effect on your benefit amount, however, your benefit is reduced if you earn above the limit. - more details. If you retire at full retirement in 2007, you can earn $34,440 per year without your benefits being reduced. See the earnings limit calculator. Estimating your Benefits Do these numbers change?
Asset Eligibility Conditions	You can have any type of assets of any value without any effect on your benefits. However pensions based on work that was not covered by Social Security may reduce your benefit. See "The Windfall Elimination Provision."
Benefit	Depends on your work and earnings history. Review the factors that may affect your Retirement Benefits. In 2007, the maximum benefit is $2,116 per month.
Apply At	Social Security office online or over the phone or locate the local Social Security office by your zip code.
Appeals	You can appeal any denial, termination, or reduction of benefits You must file an appeal within 60 days of the date of the written notice with which you disagree. In addition, you have a 5 day "grace period" to allow for the mailing of the notice to you, making the total amount of time you have to file an appeal 60+5 days.
Source of the Funds	Social Security Trust Fund
You Also Would Be Eligible For	Medicare, if you are 65 or older
Sources of Law	Federal Law: 42 U.S.C. зз 401 to 434, specifically, з 402. Old-age and survivors insurance benefit payments Federal Regulations: Generally, 20 C.F.R. зз 404.1 to 404.2127. The law and regulations are long and complicated, so it is hard to get a quick overview or to find any specific topic. The best way to get quick, clear information is The Social Security Handbook. The most important information about retirement benefits is Chapter 3. Federal Policy Materials
Other	Visit the Social Security Administration's web site

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