Social Security 2014

Thursday, October 2, 2014 • A special advertising section of ThisWeek Community News

Social Security Administration

A guide for every generation

SOMEDAY I WILL

Whatever your Someday is....

Join the millions and discover your benefits Open a my Social Security account today.

What’s your #Someday?

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October 2, 2014 | Social Security Administration Guide 2014 | SocialSecurity.gov ThisWeekNews.com

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A note from the Regional Commissioner I am pleased to present you with a Social Security Supplement to this issue of the ThisWeek Community News. The Social Security program is one that touches every person, of all ages, incomes, races and nationalities. It is an invaluable resource that is by far the most successful domestic program in the history of the United States.

As you read the pages of this supplemental publication, you will see how Social Security – which started in 1935 as a retirement Marcia R. Mosley program – plays an integral part in meeting Regional Commissioner the needs of people of all ages. Each year, we send benefits totaling about $800 billion to approximately 60 million beneficiaries.

Social Security’s mission is to deliver Social Security services that meet the changing needs of the public we serve. Our award winning website at www.socialsecurity.gov continues to be an increasingly popular option for most individuals. We also deliver services through a network of over 1,400 offices nationally, which includes regional offices, field offices, Social Security card centers, teleservice centers, processing centers, the States’ disability determination services (DDS), hearing offices, and the Appeals Council. In the Chicago Region, our 222 field offices are located in the six states of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio and Wisconsin. They are the primary points for face-to-face contact with the public.

Readers in the eight counties below are served by 10 field offices in central Ohio.

In closing, as you look over the information provided by our employees throughout this supplement, it is easy to see the difference that Social Security has made in our neighborhoods and in our counties. Social Security has enjoyed a rich history in Ohio and many of our employees have grown up in the counties we serve. We are your neighbors, friends and family members, and we are committed to providing great customer service to you and your loved ones. Remember, as you approach the milestones of your life, we are here to assist you. Take a moment and visit our awardwinning website at www.socialsecurity.gov and see how Social Security can help you.

— Marcia R. Mosley, Regional Commissioner Social Security Administration

Social Security in central Ohio County

Beneficiaries

Monthly benefits

Delaware

23,960

$30.9 million

Franklin

165,275

$189.5 million

Marion

14,215

$15.8 million

Fairfield

27,115

$31.2 million

Licking

32,690

$37.4 million

Pickaway

10,750

$12.1 million

Madison

7,405

$8.4 million

Union

7,445

$9.1 million

Total

288,855

$334.66 million

SOURCE: Social Security Administration, Master Beneficiary Record, Dec. 2013

Get to know the faces and facts of disability

By Marilyn Robinson Social Security Deputy Area Director in Southern Ohio Perhaps the most misunderstood Social Security program is disability insurance, often referred to as SSDI. Some people mistakenly think that beneficiaries are “on the dole” and getting easy money for minor impairments. That’s not the case. There are two ways to understand the truth about disability. One is by looking at the facts.

The other is by getting to know some of the people who make up the many faces of disability.

We have some of the strictest requirements in the world for disability benefits. The Social Security Act sets out a very strict definition of disability. To receive a disability benefit, a person must have See DISABILITY on page 5

SOCIAL SECURITY CELEBRATES 79 YEARS

By Carolyn W. Colvin Acting Commissioner of Social Security

a retirement program.

It provides benefits to disabled individuals and their families and benefits to widows, For the past 79 years, Social Security has widowers and the maintained its place as an American corminor children of denerstone. Secure as its foundation is, Social ceased Security has also workers. been at the foreSupplefront of change. As mental the face of America (Social Security) Carolyn W. Colvin Security has evolved over Commissioner of represents a cornerstone Social Security Income the course of the (SSI) last eight decades, in a structure which is helps aged and disabled people so too has Social being built but is by who have low income and limSecurity changed ited resources. We have work no means complete. It along with the incentives to help those people needs of the nais, in short, a law that with disabilities go to work. tion.

Social Security even provides will take care of human On August Extra Help with Medicare pre14, 1935, Presineeds and at the same scription drug costs. In so many dent Franklin D. ways, Social Security benefits time provide the United Roosevelt said America. that Social SecuStates an economic Social Security works berity “represents a cause it is an enduring agreestructure of vastly cornerstone in a ment between generations. It structure which greater soundness” is arguably our government’s is being built but — President Franklin D. Roosevelt most important program, and is by no means quite possibly the strongest complete. It is, in expression of community our short, a law that nation has. For 79 years, Social will take care of Security has made a tremendous and positive human needs and at the same time provide difference in the lives of millions, and this is the United States an economic structure of certainly something to celebrate. vastly greater soundness.”

Learn more about Social Security’s rich The Social Security Act that President Roosevelt signed that day covered a limited num- history at www.socialsecurity.gov/history. ber of workers in commerce and industry and Become a part of Social Security’s history by choosing to do business with us online at provided only retirement benefits.

Today, Social Security is much more than www.socialsecurity.gov/onlineservices.

“

MEDICARE IS HERE TO STAY

By Carmen Moreno Social Security Regional Communications Director in Chicago Medicare went into effect 48 years ago on July 1, 1966. Earlier that same year, Medicare workers went door to door trying to get seniors to sign up. Medicare was not the cornerstone then that it is today and people did not know whether it was going to work for the long haul. Now, nearly half a century later, Medicare remains one of the most popular government programs in the nation.

We can’t see the future, but one thing’s for sure: Medicare is here to stay. Medicare provides health insurance to more than 50 million Americans. Forty-two million are people age 65 and older and the other 8 million are younger and have disabilities.

Most people first become eligible for Medicare at age 65.

The four parts of Medicare are parts A, B, C, and D. • Part A (Hospital Insurance) helps cover inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing care, hospice care and home health care. Most people get Medicare Part A premiumfree since it is earned by working and paying Social Security taxes.

in Part C. Monthly • Part B (Medipremiums vary cal Insurance) depending on your helps cover state, private inservices from surer, and whether doctors and other you select a health outpatient health maintenance care providers, organization or a outpatient care, preferred provider home health care, organization. durable medical • Part D (Mediequipment, and some prevenCarmen Moreno care prescription Social Security Regional drug coverage) tive services.

Communications Director helps cover the Most people in Chicago cost of prescrippay a monthly tion drugs. Many premium for Part people pay a premium for Part B. In 2014, the premium for D. However, people with low most people is $104.90, the income and resources may same as it was in 2013. Some qualify for extra help from high-income individuals Social Security to pay the pay more than the standard premium and deductible. To premium. Your Medicare Part see if you qualify for extra help B premium also can be higher visit www.socialsecurity.gov/ if you do not enroll when you are first eligible, also known as prescriptionhelp.

Will you be age 65 soon? your initial enrollment period.

Even if you decide not to There also is a Medicare Part retire, you should consider B deductible of $147 in 2014. applying for Medicare. You • Part C (Medicare Advancan apply in less than 10 tage) allows you to choose minutes using our online to receive all of your health Medicare application. Do it care services through a today at www.socialsecurity. provider organization. This gov/medicareonly. plan includes all benefits and To learn more about apservices covered under Part A plying for Medicare when you and Part B, usually includes plan to delay retirement, read Medicare prescription drug our publication Applying For coverage, and may include Medicare Only—Before You extra benefits and services at Decide, available at www. an extra cost. You must have socialsecurity.gov/pubs.

Part A and Part B to enroll

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October 2, 2014 | Social Security Administration Guide 2014 | SocialSecurity.gov

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‘SOMEDAY’ IS CLOSER THAN YOU THINK

By Darren Lutz Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Central Ohio For many people, ‘Someday’ is an elusive day on the far-off horizon—always close enough to see, but too distant to touch.

Perhaps ‘Someday’ you plan to go skydiving. Or enter a hot dogeating contest. Maybe ‘Someday’ you plan to ride a mechanical bull.

Or travel around the world. Or visit all of America’s national parks.

‘Someday,’ you may want to retire. If you are mid-career, Someday, you may need to start planning for retirement. Even if you are just now starting your career, ‘Someday,’ you’re going to want to see what your future benefits will be and check your earnings for accuracy.

Well, get ready, because ‘Someday’ has arrived. Open a my Social Security account at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount, and you’ll see what we mean.

Millions of people have already opened an account, taking advantage of the benefits of my Social Security. Why are so many Americans opening accounts? Because my Social Security is fast, easy and

secure. It’s a convenient way to check your earnings record, get up-to-date, personalized estimates of retirement, disability, Darren Lutz and surviSocial Security vors benPublic Affairs efits, and Specialist in Central Ohio access your Social Security Statement. With a my Social Security account, you can plan for your retirement and get help figuring out how to save for your future.

If you already receive benefits, you can manage them online by starting or stopping your direct deposit, changing your address, and getting an instant proof-of-benefits letter.

Someone opens a new account just about every six seconds. Considering there is only one skydive every 16 seconds, opening a my Social Security is even more popular!

That elusive ‘Someday’ that you thought might never come is here now. You’ll find it at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount.

Football and Social Security

By Chris Chesnick Social Security District Manager in Columbus Downtown Good coaching and a great playbook can make all the difference in the world for a winning football team. Fail to create a sound game plan, and you’re likely to miss opportunities and fall behind.

The same is true for retirement—except you call the plays, including when to retire and how much to save. If you walk onto the retirement field without a game plan, you may have to work longer than you had hoped. You certainly don’t want to find yourself unable to have the comfortable retirement you envisioned.

You may have to call your own financial plays, but Social Security has tools to help you. We can help you decide what options might be successful in any situation you may find yourself in.

For example, how much can you expect to get from Social Security? How much more could you get if you worked a year longer? Two years? What about your spouse, if you are married? And are you saving enough in addition to your expected Social Security benefits?

By simply visiting www.socialsecurity.gov, you can get answers to all of these questions. You will find several financial planning tools, including our easy-to-use and secure Retirement Estimator. You can use it to get quick retirement estimates based upon your own earnings record. It’s like training camp for financial planning.

All you have to do is provide some information about yourself to verify who you are for security purposes— your name, Social Security number, date and place of birth, your mother’s maiden name, and an estimate of your last year’s earnings. The Retirement Estimator will then create Social Security benefit estimates based on your entire career earnings record.

The Retirement Estimator shows what you could receive in Social Security benefits if you retire at age 62, what you could receive at your full retirement age, and what you could receive if you work until age 70.

Interested in other play options, such as what will happen if you made more money in the future? Or if you want to stop work at a different age than the three we show you? You can try out alternate game plans using the Retirement Estimator if you change your mind about your initial retirement plans.

The last thing you want to do is depend on a “Hail Mary” pass when it comes to your retirement. With a good game plan, you will score a retirement touchdown.

Remember what one of football’s most accomplished and respected coaches, Vince Lombardi, said: “There’s only one way to succeed in anything, and that is to give it everything.” So give everything you have to developing the playbook for your retirement. And the best place to begin your game plan for a successful retirement is at www. socialsecurity.gov.

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October 2, 2014 | Social Security Administration Guide 2014 | SocialSecurity.gov ThisWeekNews.com

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Important information for public employees

By John LaMotte Social Security State Liaison in Ohio We have important information that should be of interest to public employees.

If you work for an employer who does not withhold Social Security taxes from your salary, such as Ohio’s Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS), School Employees (SERS), State Teachers Retirement System (STRS), or Police/Fire Pension, the pension you get based on that work may reduce your Social Security benefits under the “Windfall Elimination Provision.”

This provision affects how the amount of your retirement or disability benefit is calculated if you receive a pension from work where Social Security taxes were not taken out of your pay. We use a modified formula to calculate your benefit amount, resulting in a lower Social Security benefit than you otherwise would receive.

Why a modified formula? The law requires we determine Social Security benefit amounts with a formula that gives proportionately higher benefits to workers with low lifetime earnings. Before 1983, people who worked mainly in a job not covered by Social Security had their Social Security benefits calculated as if they were longterm, low-wage workers. They had the advantage of receiving a Social Security benefit representing a higher percentage of their earnings, plus a pension from a job where they did not pay Social Security taxes. Congress passed the Windfall Elimination Provision to remove that advantage.

In addition to the Windfall Elimination Provision, there is another reduction that could make a difference in benefits a spouse,

widow or widower can receive.

If you pay into another pension plan and do not pay into Social Security, any spouse, widow or widower benefits available through Social Security may be subject to a Government Pension Offset. Generally, if government employment was not covered by Social Security, any Social Security benefits must be reduced by twothirds of the government pension amount.

Why? Benefits we pay to wives, husbands, widows and widowers are “dependent’s” benefits. These benefits were established in the 1930s to compensate spouses who stayed home to raise a family and who were financially dependent on the working spouse. Now it’s more common for both spouses in a married couple to work, each earning his or her own Social Security retirement benefit. The law has always required that a person’s benefit as a spouse, widow or widower be offset dollar for dollar by the amount of his or her own retirement benefit.

Similarly, if this government employee’s work had instead been subject to Social Security taxes, any Social Security benefit payable as a spouse, widow or widower would have been reduced by the person’s own Social Security retirement benefit.

Even if you do not receive monthly benefits based on your spouse’s work, you still can get Medicare at age 65 on your spouse’s record if you are not eligible for it on your own record.

To learn more about the Windfall Elimination Provision, please read this fact sheet: www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10045.html To learn more about the Government Pension Offset, please read this one: www.socialsecurity. gov/pubs/10007.html.

Women and Social Security

By Karen Teets Social Security District Manager in Columbus North Social Security values and appreciates women. Even though men and women with identical earnings histories receive the same benefits, there are things women in particular should know about Social Security. There are trends and differences in lifestyle and patterns of earnings that can affect benefits.

For example, some women may be caregivers for many people: spouses, children and parents. Taking time away from the workplace to care for a newborn child, ailing spouse or aging parent can have an impact on your future Social Security benefits.

Also, despite significant strides through the years, women are more likely to earn less over a lifetime than

men. In addition, women are less likely than men to be covered by private retirement plans, so they are more dependent on Social Security in their retirement years.

Did you know that women tend to live on average about five years longer than men? This means more years depending on Social Security and whatever other retirement income or savings they accumulate.

If a woman’s spouse earns significantly more than she does, it is very possible she will qualify for a larger benefit amount on the spouse’s record than on her own. To learn more, visit our Women’s page at www.socialsecurity.gov/women and read, print, or listen to our publication, What Every Woman Should Know.

Learn how Social Security treats men and women equally by visiting www. socialsecurity.gov/women.

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October 2, 2014 | Social Security Administration Guide 2014 | SocialSecurity.gov

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Faster benefit decisions for veterans

By Harry Liggins Social Security District Manager in Columbus West On Veteran’s Day, as we pay tribute to the men and women who served for our country, we also share some news about Social Security disability benefits for veterans with disabilities: a new expedited disability process.

We believe it is important to recognize those who currently serve in the military, as well as those injured in the line of duty and consider it an honor and a duty to serve them. Whether the injury is physical or mental, getting a decision about Social Security disability benefits from your government shouldn’t add to the problems faced by the injured.

Carolyn W. Colvin, Commissioner of Social Security, recently unveiled a new initiative to expedite disability applications from veterans with a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability compensation rating of 100 percent Permanent and Total (P&T). Under the new process, Social Security will treat these veterans’ applications as high priority and issue expedited decisions, similar to the way we currently handle disability claims from wounded warriors.

“Our veterans have sacrificed so much for our country and it is only right that we ensure they have timely access to the disability benefits they may be eligible for and deserve,” said Commissioner Colvin.

Learn more about the new expedited process for veterans at www.socialsecurity.gov/pressoffice/ pr/2014/expedited-dib-process2-pr.html.

Read about this new service at www. socialsecurity.gov/pgm/disability-pt.htm.

Also, you’ll want to visit our Wounded Warriors page at www.socialsecurity.gov/woundedwarriors.

There you’ll find informative webinars, a Disability Planner, an overview of our disability programs and the convenient online disability application.

DISABILITY Continued from page 2 an impairment expected to last at least one year or result in death. The impairment must be so severe that it renders the person unable to perform any substantial work in the national job market, not just their previous work. SSDI does not include temporary or partial disability benefits. Because the eligibility requirements are so strict, Social Security disability beneficiaries are among the most severely impaired people in the country and tend to have high death rates.

In addition, Social Security conducts a periodic review of people who receive disability benefits to ensure they remain eligible for disability. Social Security also aggressively works to prevent, detect and prosecute fraud. Social Security often investigates suspicious disability claims before making a decision to award benefits—proactively stopping fraud before it happens. These steps help to ensure that only those eligible have access to disability benefits.

Americans place a high premium on self-sufficiency, but it is reassuring to know that Social Security disability insurance is there for those who need it the most.

As for the faces . . . there are so many people who benefit from our disability program. But for now, allow us to introduce you to a few of them. Meet some of the faces of disability—people who have benefited from Social Security when they were most in need—at the new Faces and Facts of Disability website, www. socialsecurity.gov/disabilityfacts . They’re happy to share their personal stories with you.

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October 2, 2014 | Social Security Administration Guide 2014 | SocialSecurity.gov ThisWeekNews.com

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Different benefits for your family’s different situations

By Michael Kanode Social Security District Manager in Marion Social Security has your entire family in mind when it comes to coverage and benefits. We’re here to help everyone in the family— during every stage of life.

Most people think of retirement benefits when they think about Social Security, and that certainly is a big part of what we do. In fact, most of the benefits we pay go to retirees and their families—about 41 million people. But Social Security is more than retirement.

Just read on.

If you work and pay Social Security taxes during your lifetime, you can look forward to a strong foundation of income in retirement from Social Security.

Of course, Social Security was never intended to be your sole source of retirement income. It is a foundation upon which you build with pensions, savings and other income.

But what if you become disabled before you retire and you are unable to continue working to support your family? Social Security has you covered with disability benefits. If you have a disability that is expected to last a year or longer, or result in death, you should apply for disability benefits.

Your work and taxes cover not only you, but your entire family, too. Family benefits can include retirement, disability and, in the event of your death, sur-

vivors benefits. This coverage includes everyone in your family who depends on you for support, such as your minor children who are under age 18, or age 19 if still in secondary school, as well as your spouse. It also can include older children who have severe disabilities that began before age 22. In some cases, parents and grandchildren can qualify for family benefits if they depend on your income and you are their only means of support If you want to learn more about how Social Security benefits the younger members of your family, visit www. socialsecurity.gov/youngpeople. This page has information for you even if you don’t have children and are a young worker yourself.

So whether through survivors, disability, or retirement benefits, Social Security is here to help you and your entire family when the need arises.

And the best way to apply for benefits is online at www.socialsecurity.gov.

Perhaps another popular family member—the family pet—can best explain why applying online is the best option for you. Check out our creative videos on our YouTube channel for sound advice from the four-legged members of the family. Just visit www.socialsecurity.gov and select the YouTube button at the bottom of the page.

Want to learn more? Read or listen to the publication, Understanding the Benefits, at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs.

Social Security Administration Guide Thursday, October 2, 2014 sales director: Doug Dixon retail sales manager: Heather Kritter production & design: Chris Lutzko • Annie Steel account executives: Gail Fullerton • Michelle Rettig • Michele Brogan • Seth Rozen Ruthanne Roork • Kevin Shockey Social Security Administration Guide is a special advertising supplement to ThisWeek Community News. Social Security Administration Guide is not responsible for opinions and views expressed in the paid advertisement in the business profiles. All real estate advertising herein is subject to the federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familiar status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

MY SOCIAL SECURITY SIMPLIFIES YOUR LIFE

By Stephanie Morgan Social Security District Manager in Columbus East So many people buzz through extremely busy and complicated schedules these days. A smartphone in one hand, a computer in front of you, and a digital task list that never seems to end.

Most organized people agree that planning ahead is a great way to simplify your life. Whether you’re planning tomorrow’s schedule, next summer’s vacation, or your retirement.

We have a suggestion that can help you simplify your life when it comes to Social Security. If you haven’t already (it’s probably on your task list), open your own personal my Social Security account.

What’s my Social Security? It’s a free, secure, online account that allows you immediate access to your personal Social Security information. During your working years, you can use my Social Security to view your Social Security Statement to check your earnings record and see estimates of the future retirement, disability and survivor benefits you

and your family may receive based on your earnings. If you already receive Social Security benefits, you can use my Social Security to check your benefit information, change your address and phone number, change your electronic payment methods, and even obtain a benefit verification letter. Check it out and sign up for my Social Security at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount.

After you check your online Social Security Statement, be sure to visit our Retirement Estimator. Like my Social Security, you can use it as many times as you’d like. The Retirement Estimator lets you compute potential future Social Security benefits by changing variables, such as retirement dates and future earnings.

You may discover that you’d rather wait another year or two before you retire to earn a higher benefit. To get instant, personalized estimates of your future benefits just go to www. socialsecurity.gov/estimator.

There are many tools at www.socialsecurity.gov that are simple and convenient to use. Open a my Social Security account today by visiting www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount and simplify your life.

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October 2, 2014 | Social Security Administration Guide 2014 | SocialSecurity.gov

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Let’s talk about Medicare Extra Help

By Paul Benson Social Security District Manager in Lancaster October is “Talk About Prescriptions Month” and marks the beginning of this year’s Medicare open enrollment period. It’s the perfect time to talk about Medicare prescriptions and the Extra Help available from Social Security. Newly eligible Medicare beneficiaries and current beneficiaries who are considering changes to their Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage) plan, should act now. The Medicare open enrollment period runs from October 15 to December 7.

The Medicare Part D prescription drug plan is available to all Medicare beneficiaries to help with the costs of medications. Joining a Medicare prescription drug plan is voluntary, and participants pay an additional monthly premium for the prescription drug coverage.

While all Medicare beneficiaries can participate in the Medicare Part D prescription drug plan, some people with limited income and resources may be eligible for Extra Help to pay for monthly premiums, annual deductibles, and prescription copayments. The Extra Help is estimated to be worth about $4,000 per year.

Many Medicare beneficiaries qualify for these big savings and don’t even know it.

To figure out whether you are eligible for the Extra Help, Social Security needs to know your income and the value of any savings, investments, and real estate (other than the home you live in). To qualify, you must be receiving Medicare and have: • Income limited to $17,505 for an individual or $23,265 for a married couple living together. Even if your annual income is higher, you still may

for Extra Help with Medicare Prescripindividual or $26,860 for a married tion Drug Plan Costs (SSA-1020). couple living together. Resources And if you would like more inforinclude such things as bank accounts, mation about the Medicare Part D stocks, and bonds. We do not count Prescription Drug Program, visit www. your house or car as resources. medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDIYou can complete an easy-toCARE (1-800-633-4227; TTY 1-877use online application or get more 486-2048). information by visiting www.socialseWhile we’re on the subject of open curity.gov/medicare. To apply for seasons, the open enrollment period the Extra Help by phone or have an for qualified health plans under the applicaAffordable Care Act is November 15 tion mailed to February 15. Learn more about it at to you, www.healthcare.gov. call Social This Medicare open enrollment seaSecurity at son, while you search for the Medicare 1-800-772prescription drug plan that best meets 1213 (TTY known); and your needs—see if you qualify for the 1-800-325• Who else has knowledge of the potential violaExtra Help through Social Security.

0778) and tion.

That’s a winning prescription worth ask for the Identity theft is one of the fastest-growing Application talking about. crimes in America. If you or anyone you know has been the victim of identity theft, you should contact the Federal Trade Commission at www. idtheft.gov, or call 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-4384338); TTY 1-866-653-4261.

Misleading advertisers may victimize people who receive Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. Such companies offer Social Security services for a fee, even though the same services are available directly from us free of charge. Especially upsetting are ads that make it To exceed the expectations of those we appear as though they came directly from us. By serve, The Laurels of Norworth is currently law, such advertisements must indicate that the undergoing renovations to include: company is not affiliated with Social Security. new wall coverings, furniture, window If you see what you believe is misleading advertreatments, bathroom tile in our rehab tising for Social Security services from a company rooms, and new furniture throughout the that fails to say it is not affiliated with Social facility.

Security, report it to us at: Office of the Inspector General, Fraud Hotline, Social Security Administration, P.O. Box 17768, Baltimore, MD 21235.

This goes for advertisements in print, online, or on television or radio. Also, advise your state’s attorney general or consumer affairs office and the Better Business Bureau. You can visit the Office of the Inspector General online at http://oig.ssa.gov and select the “Fraud, Waste or Abuse” link. Learn more about identity theft and misleading advertising by reading our publications on the subjects at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs. You may have enough stress already. Don’t get stressed over fraud.

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be able to get some help with monthly premiums, annual deductibles, and prescription co-payments. Some examples where your income may be higher include if you or your spouse: — Support other family members who live with you; — Have earnings from work; or —Live in Alaska or Hawaii; and Resources limited to $13,440 for an

DON’T STRESS OVER FRAUD

By Alice LaMotte Social Security District Manager in Newark Stress is everywhere, but one thing that should never cause you stress is doing business with Social Security.

However, if you fall victim to fraud, it can really stress you out, not to mention damage your credit score and wallet. We encourage you to be cautious of suspicious email, letters, and phone calls or any time someone asks for your personal information.

Generally, Social Security will not call or email you and ask for your personal information, such as your Social Security number or banking information. If someone contacts you and asks for this kind of information and claims to be from Social Security, do not give out your personal information without first contacting us to verify the validity of the request. It could be an identity thief phishing for your personal information. Contact our toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).

Report suspicious calls to our Fraud Hotline at 1-800-269-0271 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Eastern Time, or online at http://oig.ssa.gov using the “Fraud, Waste, and Abuse” link. When making a report, please include as many of the following details as possible: • The alleged suspect(s) and victim(s) names, addresses, phone numbers, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers; • Description of the fraud and the location where the fraud took place; • When and how the fraud was committed; • Why the person committed the fraud (if

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October 2, 2014 | Social Security Administration Guide 2014 | SocialSecurity.gov ThisWeekNews.com

8

UPCOMING

October 2014 Savings Seminar / Columbus Savvy Shopper

presented by Laurie Dixon Saturday, October 4 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Elder Care

presented by Browning, Meyer & Bell Saturday, October 11 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Medicare & Muffins

FREE

WORKSHOPS! December 2014 Social Security 101

presented by Darren Lutz, Social Security Administration Saturday, December 6 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

presented by Seniority Benefit Group Saturday, October 25 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Wills, Trusts and Estates

November 2014

Everyone welcome! Sign up today.

Identity Theft

Saturday, November 8 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

presented by Carlile Patchen & Murphy, LLP Saturday, December 13 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Visit www.bmifcu.org or call 614.707.4000.

Medicare & Muffins

presented by Seniority Benefit Group Saturday, November 15 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Wills, Trusts and Estates

presented by Carlile Patchen & Murphy, LLP Saturday, November 22 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

BMI FCU® is open to everyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in Franklin, Licking, Fairfield, Pickaway, Madison, Union, Delaware or Morrow County. This credit union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration. Additional coverage up to $250,000 provided by Excess Share Insurance Corporation, a licensed insurance company. BMI Federal Credit Union, BMI FCU and We make banking personal are all registered trademarks of BMI Federal Credit Union.