St. Augustine Social Security Administration

Administering Benefits Efficiently and Reliably to Those Who Qualify

The Social Security Administration (SSA), a U.S. government agency, administers financial and healthcare-related benefits to support the stability of individuals and families nationwide. These services include retirement benefits, disability benefits, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), survivor and family benefits, Medicare, and the issuance of new or replacement Social Security cards.

The SSA's core mission is to deliver timely and accurate benefits to eligible individuals and ensure that support is available.

Programs for Retired Individuals and Persons with Disabilities

Retirement benefits are among the most well-known services provided by the SSA. These benefits replace a portion of an individual's pre-retirement income based on their lifetime earnings. By offering a stable source of monthly income, retirement benefits help individuals maintain their standard of living and meet expenses during their later years.

This financial support also enables retirees to enjoy more personal freedom, pursue hobbies, and spend time with family. In addition to retirement income, the SSA provides family benefits to the eligible relatives of retirees. These benefits may be available to current spouses, ex-spouses, dependent children, and, in some instances, grandchildren.

The SSA offers disability insurance (SSDI) and supplemental security income (SSI) for those unable to work due to severe medical conditions or disabilities. SSDI benefits are available to individuals with a qualifying work history who meet specific medical criteria, while SSI provides financial aid to individuals with limited income and resources, regardless of work history.

Programs for Bereaved Families, Senior Healthcare, and Social Security Identification

The SSA also provides survivor benefits to the family members of deceased workers. These monthly payments help surviving spouses, children, and sometimes dependent parents cope with the financial impact of a loved one's death. Survivors of military service members who died in the line of duty or due to service-connected causes may also be eligible.

Beneficiaries may include biological, adopted, stepchildren, grandchildren, and step-grandchildren under certain circumstances. Another program administered by the SSA is Medicare, a federal health insurance program for individuals aged 65 and older and specific younger individuals with disabilities. Medicare comprises several parts: hospital, medical, and prescription drug coverage.

Together, these services help reduce healthcare costs for seniors, allowing them to access medical care, hospitalization, and medications. Lastly, the SSA manages the issuance of Social Security cards to track earnings and determine eligibility for benefits.

Individuals can request new or replacement cards for loss, theft, or name changes. These cards are also commonly used as proof of identity and citizenship when applying for jobs or other official documentation.