Social Security Administration offers info sources

Social Security offers a variety of free services to the public via its award winning Internet web site at www.ssa.gov.

The web site offers general or specific information about Social Security. The most popular services include requesting benefit information publications, a Social Security Statement of Earnings, replacing a Medicare card, starting or changing direct deposit and requesting benefit verification information.

One of the many services offered is information on how to apply for a new or replacement Social Security card. "There is never a charge for a new or replacement Social Security card or for any services with Social Security," said Thomas Ragonese, District Manager of the Greece Social Security Office. Ragonese advised that middlemen just delay the process and cost you money.

According to Ragonese, Social Security also offers limited access to accounts using a password. Effective this month, beneficiaries receiving Social Security benefits only or Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments together can log onto "Check Your Benefits" with a password. The individual can access information about direct deposit, Medicare, payment amount and an existing overpayment on their own account.

Other online services available include:

•Benefit calculators and information on retirement, disability and survivor benefits to help people of all ages plan their future financial security by using their anticipated Social Security benefits as a base. Customers can experiment with countless retirement scenarios by plugging in variable numbers.•

Applications for Social Security retirement, disability and survivor benefits.

•ENews, a monthly electronic newsletter that's packed full of Social Security news and information.

•Information in Spanish and other languages.

•Most Social Security forms available to download.