Every now and then we like to checkout Social Security’s blog that deals with different topics and programs Social Security offers. One feature these blogs offer is a place to comment about the content of the blog. Typically, if you read most stories on the internet that offer a place to comment you will get some nasty comments about politics, but also some really misinformed comments. The Social Security blog is no different.
A recent comment on Social Security’s blog about the agency’s collaboration with America Saves Week read “It is getting a bit disconcerting to hear almost nothing from Social Security while being bombarded by fake news about Congress cutting Social Security benefits in the near future. Which is true?”
Unfortunately we are living in a day for false information is supplied on the internet constantly, which makes it difficult to know exactly what the truth is. There is no plan or legislation offered to cut Social Security benefits. If there were, you can be sure it would be major news carried by all the nations leading newspapers and TV networks. It is important that readers be diligent about where they get their news from. You should not get your news from Twitter or Facebook because false stories pop-up there all the time. Any news about Social Security benefits being cut would be a topic that would have every major news organization in the country talking about it.
A good question was posted by someone who wondered how long it would take to get their first Social Security payment after signing up. Luckily this question was answered thoroughly by Ray Fernandez, a public affairs specialist with Social Security. Fernandez wrote, “Your payments are established almost immediately after we process your application. Remember that benefits are paid the month after they are due. So, for instance, if you want your benefits to begin with the month of March, you will receive your first benefit payment in April. The earliest age to apply and receive Social Security Retirement Benefits is 62, but if you decide to get benefits before your full retirement age, your benefits will be reduced. Also, you can create a My Social Security account to review your earnings record and get an estimate of your future benefits. When you are ready, you can complete your application for retirement benefits online.”
A blog from Social Security about potential benefits for an ex-spouse created confusion about how Social Security benefits can be impacted by divorce. Fernandez also responded to this question with a thoughtful answer. It is important to know that Social Security provides federal benefits, but divorces deal with state laws. Fernandez wrote, “Generally, Social Security benefits are Federal benefits and are not subject to division in state courts. If the marriage lasted 10 years or longer, your ex-spouse may be eligible to receive benefits on your record at age 62 or older. See our Retirement Planner: Benefits For Your Divorced Spouse for other eligibility requirements and more detailed information.”
Today, more than ever, it is important to get the correct answers to your questions. You can’t rely on comments from other readers to answer your questions; you must seek out a person who has the knowledge to answer your questions correctly. The information is out there, you just have to know where to look for it.
