Social Security FAQs How do you get a new Social Security card? The process is simple if you need a new Social Security card. First, fill out an application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5). You can find this form online at the official Social Security website or pick one up at any local Social Security office. Next, provide proof of your identity and either citizenship or lawful non-citizen status. Finally, submit your completed application and proof of identity to a local Social Security office. Is Social Security taxable? Starting in 1983, Social Security benefits are taxable beyond certain income thresholds. No taxpayer, regardless of income, has the whole amount of their Social Security benefits taxed. The highest category comprises 85% of the full benefit. How do you apply for Social Security? Applying for Social Security benefits can be done online at the official Social Security website or in person at any local Social Security office. To apply for benefits, you must provide proof of your identity and either citizenship or lawful non-citizen status. You may also need to provide marriage, military service, and work history documents. Lastly, you must fill out an application for Social Security benefits. How do you check on your Social Security status? You can check the status of your Social Security benefits by visiting the official Social Security website and using their My Social Security feature. This tool allows you to review your payment history, make changes to personal information, and verify that all information is correct. Additionally, you may call or visit a local Social Security office for assistance with checking your status. How are Social Security benefits calculated? Social Security benefits are computed based on your lifetime earnings up to the Social Security taxable wage base. This amount changes from year to year and is adjusted for inflation. Your yearly earnings are indexed to account for wage growth over time. The Social Security Administration then calculates a benefit amount based on these indexed wages by applying a formula that considers work history and age. About the Author True Tamplin, BSc, CEPF® Facebook Linkedin Instagram Twitter Youtube True Tamplin is a published author, public speaker, CEO of UpDigital, and founder of Finance Strategists. True is a Certified Educator in Personal Finance (CEPF®), author of The Handy Financial Ratios Guide, a member of the Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing, contributes to his financial education site, Finance Strategists, and has spoken to various financial communities such as the CFA Institute, as well as university students like his Alma mater, Biola University, where he received a bachelor of science in business and data analytics. To learn more about True, visit his personal website or view his author profiles on Amazon, Nasdaq and Forbes.