Answer Center

Related Links
Plan your journey
Saving for retirement
Preparing to retire
Recently retired













































































































































Print this page
Email a link

Social Security Quiz

Question 1

I was born in 1948. When can I retire?

a. When I'm 65.
b. When I'm 62.
c. When I'm 66.
d. When I'm 70.
e. All of the above.

Question 2

How are my retirement benefits calculated?

a. Using the three highest years of my earnings.
b. Using the three most recent years of my earnings.
c. Using the Consumer Price Index and the Cost of Living as a base.
d. Using a formula that includes the 35 highest years of my earnings.
e. Using both a. and c.

Question 3

I'm retired at age 63 but want to work part-time at my golf course. Can I do so without any financial penalties?

a. Yes.
b. Only if Social Security grants me permission.
c. You may work only up to 20 hours per week.
d. You may work but not exceed yearly earnings of $13,560.
e. No, once retired you must not work for wages.

Question 4

I plan on retiring next year. My wife has never worked. Will she get anything?

a. Only if you have children under the age(s) of 18.
b. She must have worked at least five years in her lifetime.
c. Yes, but the amount will depend upon her age when she first collects.
d. Both a. and b.
e. Not a cent.

Question 5

I don't plan on retiring until I'm 67. Is that when Medicare will kick in?

a. No. You are eligible for Medicare at age 65.
b. Yes. Medicare starts the month of your first retirement benefit.
c. Medicare will begin only if you are under a physician's care.
d. You must be at the poverty level to qualify for Medicare.
e. None of the above.

Question 6

Where can I file for my retirement?

a. Any Social Security office.
b. The Social Security office nearest you.
c. The Social Security Web site.
d. Call the Social Security toll-free number for an appointment.
e. Any of the above.

Question 7

If I work after I receive my retirement benefit, do I still need to pay Social Security and Medicare taxes?

a. Yes, any time you work in any job that is covered by Social Security.
b. Yes, but only until you reach age 70.
c. No.
d. You will only need to pay Medicare taxes.
e. None of the above.

Question 8

I've only worked in covered employment for half of my career. How do I know if I'm eligible for retirement benefits?

a. Check with the IRS.
b. Ask your most recent employer.
c. Look at your yearly Social Security Statement.
d. Call Social Security's toll free number.
e. Either c. or d.

Question 9

What documents do I need to have with me when I file for Social Security retirement?

a. My original Social Security card which shows my Social Security Number.
b. Valid driver's license and proof of address.
c. Valid driver's license and three other documents that match that name.
d. Passport and birth certificate.
e. None of these answers is correct.

Question 10

What is a Social Security Statement?

a. There is no such thing.
b. Your W-2.
c. A record maintained by Social Security.
d. An annual form mailed out to you.
e. Both c. and d.