How to Find Out if Social Security is Shortchanging You
A Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is not the only way to get bigger benefits. According to an article by The Motley Fool, the Social Security Administration (SSA) processes millions of benefit payments, so clerical errors could happen. Many of these errors result in underpayment.
You might be wondering, “How do I know if that happened to me?” The article points out three things to check to see if you’re owed more Social Security than you’re currently getting.
- Verify your earnings record
- If you are widowed, check that the death of a spouse or former spouse has been updated in SSA’s system
- Make sure SSA recalculated your benefits after withholding due to the earnings test
The article says if you discover an underpayment, you should call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your nearest SSA office. You will need to submit a written request for a Social Security benefit recomputation.
The Seniors Trust is committed to improving the financial well-being of older Americans by passing the Social Security Expansion Act. It will give retirees an immediate increase of about $200 a month in benefits, a fair annual COLA, increased minimum benefits, and ensure the long-term solvency of the Social Security program.
