Disability benefits are a separate program from Social Security retirement benefits. To qualify for retirement benefits, you must meet the age and work credit requirements, and be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.

The full retirement age for Social Security benefits depends on your year of birth. For people born in 1960 or later, the full retirement age is 67.

You need to earn 40 work credits to qualify for Social Security retirement benefits. You can earn up to 4 work credits per year.

The maximum amount of Social Security retirement benefits that you can receive depends on your earnings history and the age at which you start receiving benefits. In 2023, the maximum benefit for someone who retires at full retirement age is $4,194 per month.

Social Security retirement benefits are based on your earnings history and are paid to people who are 62 or older. Social Security disability benefits are based on your medical condition and are paid to people who are under 62. Retirement benefits are taxable, while disability benefits are not.

You can apply for Social Security benefits online, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. You will need to provide your Social Security number, birth certificate, and proof of earnings. You may also need to provide medical records if you are applying for disability benefits.

The processing time for a Social Security benefits application can vary depending on the type of benefit you are applying for and the complexity of your case. However, most applications are processed within 3-6 months.

If you disagree with the Social Security Administration's decision on your benefits application, you can file an appeal, contact your local Social Security office, or file a lawsuit.

The different types of Social Security benefits include retirement benefits, disability benefits, and survivors benefits.

Social Security survivors benefits are available to spouses, children, and parents of deceased workers.

The windfall elimination provision reduces Social Security benefits for people who also receive a pension from a government job.

The government pension offset reduces Social Security benefits for people who also receive a pension from a government job.

The Social Security earnings test reduces Social Security benefits for people who earn too much money.

The Social Security retirement age is 67 for people born in 1960 or later.

The maximum amount of Social Security benefits that a person can receive is $4,000 per month in 2023.