{"id":353878,"date":"2016-04-04T10:48:03","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:48:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/socialsecurity\/basics.html"},"modified":"2026-03-18T16:53:17","modified_gmt":"2026-03-18T21:53:17","slug":"basics","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/socialsecurity\/basics.html","title":{"rendered":"Social Security for Retirement and Survivors"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\n
\n
\n \n Social Security for Retirement and Survivors\n <\/h1>\n \n The Social Security program is funded through mandatory taxes everyone pays during their working years. When you reach retirement age you can apply for benefits.\n <\/p>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
\n
\n

Created by FindLaw’s team<\/a> of legal writers and editors<\/i><\/p>\n\n | Last updated\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
\n

This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
\n

The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n

This section offers information on a variety of issues related to Social Security. From how to apply for benefits, how early or late retirement will affect your Social Security payments, and who might be entitled to your benefits should you pass away. <\/p>\n

You’ll find in-depth information on the types of Social Security benefits available, including retirement and disability benefits. Learn how to file for benefits and contest a denial, how your pension and other retirement income impacts payouts, and how to understand your Social Security taxes and benefit statements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n What Is Social Security?\n \n <\/i>\n <\/span>\n <\/button>\n <\/h2>\n \n