SOCIAL SECURITY & RETIREMENT

AT HOME OR ON THE GO: SOCIAL SECURITY IS ONLINE

When you retire, if you become disabled, or if someone you depend on dies— we are there when you need us. With your personal and secure my Social Security account, you can access your information, benefits, and important services from just about anywhere. Having a personal mySocial Security account allows you to:

• Compare future benefit estimates for different dates or ages when you may want to begin receiving benefits.

• Check the status of your benefits application or appeal.

• Review your earnings history.

• Request a replacement Social Security card (in most states).

If you already receive benefits, you can also:

• Get a benefit verification or proof of income letter.

• Set up or change your direct deposit.

• Change your address.

• Get a Social Security 1099 form (SSA-1099).

You can even use your personal my Social Security account to opt out of receiving certain notices by mail, including the annual cost-of-living adjustments notice and the income-related monthly adjustment amount notice. These notices are available in your Message Center when you sign into your account. We will email you when you have a new message, so you never miss an important update.

It’s easy to sign up for a mySocial Security account. Please let your friends and family know that they can create their own my Social Security account today at http://www.ssa.gov/myaccount.

SAVE YOUR PLACE IN LINE WITH MOBILE CHECK-IN EXPRESS

Our Mobile Check-In Express feature makes it easier to check in if you must visit a Social Security office.

To use Mobile Check-In Express, scan the QR code located at your local Social Security office. This will allow you to check in for:

• Scheduled and non-scheduled appointments.

• Services—including requesting a replacement Social Security card, a benefit verification letter, proof of income, and more.

For Mobile Check-In Express to work, you must be at the Social Security office and have location services on. You should also make sure you’re using the latest version of your internet browser. The service is most compatible with Safari, Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Firefox.

You’ll also want to:

• Ensure you are in the office when your ticket number is called.

• Enable your mobile notifications. This will:

- Allow you to receive your electronic ticket – so you know your place in line.

- Alert you when we’re ready to help you.

- Provide you with your interview location information. - Invite you to participate in our feedback survey.

We encourage you to use Mobile Check-In Express for all office visits. Please share this information with those who may need it.

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF THE REHABILITATION ACT

This year, we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This law prohibits disability-related discrimination in programs that are run by federal agencies or receive federal funding. It also protects federal employees and contractors from discrimination.

Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act requires that federal contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to recruit, hire, employ, promote, and retain qualified people with disabilities.

Section 503 and Social Security’s Ticket to Work Program

Section 503 provides job opportunities for qualified people with disabilities. Our Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program can help connect you with jobs.

The Ticket Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and want to work. Through this free and voluntary program, participants can work with service providers to receive the supports and services they need to find and maintain employment. This allows them to move toward financial independence through work.

Organizations that provide employment-related services, like State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies and American Job Centers (AJCs) can help you find federal contractors and subcontractors. If you’re eligible for the Ticket Program, an Employment Network (EN) may also help.

Many federal contractors and subcontractors look to State VR agencies, AJCs, and ENs to find qualified candidates with disabilities to fill open positions.

To learn more about the Ticket Program, visit http://www.choosework.ssa.gov or call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967

(TTY), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. Ask for a list of service providers or find providers on your own using the Ticket Program Find Help Tool found at http://www.choosework.ssa.gov/findhelp .

You can also learn more by registering for a free, online event at http://www.choosework.ssa.gov/wise or text TICKET to 474747 to receive Ticket Program texts. Standard messaging rates may apply, and you can opt out at any time.

Please share this information with your loved ones.

HOW BUSINESS OWNERS CAN MAKE SOCIAL SECURITY PART OF THEIR RETIREMENT PLANNING

Most business owners are hyper-focused on growing their business and legacy. But at some point, they must consider a plan for retirement. That’s why it’s important for business owners to begin thinking about how Social Security fits into their retirement planning. Social Security benefits are part of the retirement plan of almost every American worker – including business owners.

Since there are specific rules for business owners, they should speak with a financial advisor or accountant before applying. One of the biggest mistakes business owners make – aside from starting retirement planning too late – is not having a plan at all. This is where an expert can give sound advice on how to navigate retirement.

Business owners can visit http://www.ssa.gov/prepare/plan-retirementto determine eligibility for retirement benefits as well as get a benefit estimate.

Our publication, If You Are Self-Employed, at http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN- 05-10022.pdf, provides important information about Social Security taxes for business owners as well as how to report earnings. Don’t delay, start your retirement planning today!

Please share this information with your loved ones.