Employment

Q: You've written in past columns that the SSI program is not a Social Security benefit. But my sister is getting SSI. And when she gets letters about her payments, they come from the Social Security office. So how can you say SSI has nothing to do with Social Security? A: To answer your question, let me give you a little history lesson. Back before 1973, each state, and … [Read more...] about Questions About SSI Benefits

Q: I am 60 years old and have had to stop work because of various medical problems. I would like to apply for Social Security disability benefits. But my husband and I have a retirement nest egg worth about $250,000, so I guess we are not eligible. Do I just wait until I am 62 to sign up for retirement benefits? A: I am constantly amazed by the number of people, yourself … [Read more...] about Why Social Security Disability Is Not Welfare

Q: I read your recent column explaining the offset I will suffer because I get a small teacher's pension that will prevent me from getting full benefits on my husband's Social Security record. My husband gets $2,400 per month from Social Security. I only taught for a short while and get $400 from the Texas teacher's retirement system. If I drop that pension, can I … [Read more...] about Social Security and You – Questions from Teachers and Railroaders