Social Security? What Exactly Is It?

When caring for your family members, whether they are nearing retirement age or struggling with a significant disability, they may be entitled to Social Security benefits. Social Security has been an essential financial resource for older adults in the United States for over 80 years. 

Annually, roughly 65 million Americans receive Social Security payments. The majority of people claiming Social Security benefits are retired adults. These benefits, however, are not limited to retirees. Spouses, ex-spouses, the disabled, at-home caregivers, survivors of deceased workers, and other beneficiaries may be eligible for benefits.

Social Security is governed by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and provides benefits based on pre-retirement earnings. Social Security taxes were deducted from their paycheck during your loved one’s employment. When it’s time for your loved one to claim their Social Security, that money comes back to them as a monthly payment.

When Should Your Loved One Take Social Security? 

The best time to start collecting Social Security benefits is a personal decision based on individual circumstances. Benefits can be claimed as soon as your loved one reaches full retirement age, but if they require it earlier, that is also possible. It’s essential to clearly understand how much your loved one will receive if the claim is initiated early.

Among the many benefits Social Security provides, such as Supplemental Security Income, Survivors’ Benefit and Spousal Benefits, to name a few, you can benefit as an at-home caregiver as well. Under certain conditions, Social Security may pay select caregivers. In some cases, other government agencies and programs provide financial assistance to caregivers. This is critical because being the primary caregiver for a family member is frequently a full-time job. Caregivers unable to work outside the home must supplement their income to cover their expenses and maintain their standard of living.

Did you know you can be compensated for caring for your loved ones at home? Caregivers may qualify for a monthly payment. Apply now at or call us at 866-880-8889.