Social Security FAQs: Answers to the Questions We Hear Most

If you’re nearing retirement or already collecting Social Security, chances are you’ve got a few questions—and you’re not alone. At our firm, we hear the same concerns come up over and over, whether it’s about how much you can earn, how to avoid scams, or who qualifies for survivor benefits.

Here’s a helpful rundown of the most frequently asked questions—answered clearly and directly.

1. How can I get help from Social Security?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) makes it easier than most government agencies (believe it or not). You can:

  • Visit www.ssa.gov to access your account, apply for benefits, or update your information.

  • Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778) Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

  • Visit your local Social Security office (find locations on the SSA website).

Kevin’s Tip: If you don’t already have a my Social Security account online, create one. It makes managing your benefits way easier.

2. What should I do if I receive a call from someone claiming to be a Social Security employee?

Hang up—it’s almost always a scam.

The SSA will never:

  • Threaten you with arrest or legal action

  • Ask for personal information over the phone

  • Demand payment using gift cards or wire transfers

If you're unsure, call SSA directly at 1-800-772-1213. And if you think it was a scam, report it to the Office of the Inspector General at oig.ssa.gov.

3. How do I schedule, reschedule, or cancel an appointment?

You can schedule, change, or cancel an appointment by:

  • Calling SSA at 1-800-772-1213

  • Visiting your local Social Security office

  • Logging into your my Social Security account (for some services)

If you miss an appointment, don’t panic—you can usually reschedule quickly, but call as soon as possible to avoid delays.

4. What happens if I work and get Social Security retirement benefits?

This depends on your age.

  • If you’re under full retirement age (FRA): You can earn up to $22,320 in 2024 before benefits are reduced. For every $2 over the limit, $1 in benefits is withheld.

  • During the year you reach FRA: You can earn more—$59,520 in 2024—before the reduction applies.

  • Once you hit FRA: There’s no penalty. You can work and earn as much as you want without reducing your benefit.

Kevin’s Take: Working in retirement is totally doable, but you’ve got to watch how it impacts your Social Security and tax bracket.

5. Who is eligible to receive Social Security survivors benefits and how do I apply?

Survivor benefits are available to:

  • Widows or widowers (starting as early as age 60, or 50 if disabled)

  • Surviving divorced spouses

  • Children under 18 (or up to 19 if in high school)

  • Disabled children of any age (if the disability began before age 22)

  • Dependent parents aged 62 or older

To apply, call 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local SSA office. You can’t apply online for survivor benefits.

6. What is the maximum Social Security retirement benefit payable?

As of 2024:

  • The maximum monthly benefit at full retirement age is $3,822

  • If you delay benefits until age 70, it goes up to $4,873/month

The catch? You’d need to have earned the maximum taxable wage every year for 35 years to qualify for that top payout.

Translation: Most people won’t hit the max, but smart timing can still boost your benefit significantly.

7. How do I apply for Social Security retirement benefits?

You can apply:

  • Online: ssa.gov/retirement

  • By phone: 1-800-772-1213

  • In person: at your local Social Security office

Best practice? Apply 3 months before you want to start receiving benefits.

8. Must I pay taxes on Social Security benefits?

Unfortunately, yes—many retirees do.

  • If you file as an individual and your combined income is over $25,000, part of your benefit is taxable.

  • For couples filing jointly, the threshold is $32,000.

  • Up to 85% of your benefits may be taxed depending on income.

Kevin’s Strategy: We help clients minimize tax exposure through proactive income planning. If you’ve got other retirement income (like IRAs, pensions, or part-time work), talk to a pro before RMD season hits.

Final Thought: Clarity Beats Confusion

Social Security is one of the most important income streams in retirement—and one of the most misunderstood. If you’re unsure where you stand, confused about paperwork, or concerned about when to start, you’re not alone.

Knowledge is power—and peace of mind.

Let’s get your plan on paper so Social Security becomes a source of stability, not stress.