This Thanksgiving, pass the mouse

  • Published
  • By Zahra Erickson
  • Social Security Public Affairs
Russellville, Ark. --  
Thanksgiving is almost here. Families across the nation will come together to share more than a meal -- to share warm memories, and to make them. People may plan to watch a Thanksgiving Day parade, toss a football on a leaf-covered yard or simply sit together over coffee to talk.

While the family is together, it may be the perfect time to help Mom or Dad, Grandma or Grandpa or a favorite Aunt or Uncle. Just ask them to pass the mouse.

A new meal plan isn't being suggested; ask them to pass the computer mouse. Relax in front of a computer and show them how easy it is to conduct their Social Security business online from the convenience and comfort of their own home or office. Just visit www.socialsecurity.gov.

There are a number of the things people can help their loved ones do online. Use the Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool, to see whether they qualify for benefits. Or use the Retirement Estimator for an instant and personalized estimate of their retirement benefits. People can learn about these and many other online services available by visiting www.socialsecurity.gov/onlineservices.

But perhaps the best thing people can do to help older family members this Thanksgiving is to go beyond just helping them prepare -- help loved ones apply online for Social Security benefits.

That's right. People can help them apply for Social Security retirement benefits right from the comfort and convenience of the family computer. What's more is that people can do it in as little as 15 minutes.

It's so easy to apply for retirement benefits online. There's no need to drive to a local Social Security office or wait for an appointment with a Social Security representative.

Need to take a break or look for some records to answer the questions -- or snack on leftovers? That's just fine. People can leave and then come back to complete their application.

In most cases, once the application is submitted electronically, that's it. There are no forms to sign and usually no further documents required. Social Security will process the application and contact people's loved one if any further information is needed. After people have applied, they can check back online for the status of their application as well.