If you are looking for a clear, simple, and understandable explanation of the ins and outs of the Social Security system, the go-to guide is the Online Social Security Handbook.
This online resource boils down the regulations into plain English and keeps the legalese to a minimum.
Here are some sample topics:
- What are the categories of eligibility under SSI (Supplemental Security Income)?
- How is disability defined for disabled widow(er)s?
- Are Social Security benefits subject to taxes?
- When is a widow entitled to widow(er)’s insurance benefits?
- When is a surviving child entitled to child’s insurance benefits?
The downside of the Social Security Handbook is that it is not always current with the regulations, so some of the information may be out of date.
Also, it is not a primary source. That means you cannot cite the handbook as legal authority. You still need to know the regulations (which the handbook does not give you) if you want to make a citation.
However, when you just want to get an overview of how Social Security addresses a particular topic, the Handbook is a terrific resource.
