Social Security provides spousal benefits to current spouses as well as to ex-spouses to whom you were married for 10 years or longer. Children are also eligible for Social Security if they are younger than 18, full-time high-school students who are 18 or 19 years old, or disabled. Survivor benefits are also available under Social Security to a qua

The maximum benefit available under Social Security depends on the year in which you retire and the maximum taxable wage base for Social Security payroll taxes during the years in which you had the highest earnings. For 2016, the highest possible benefit payable is $3,576 for someone who retires at age 70 and thereby maximizes potential payments.

Social Security card is mailed as soon as all of the necessary information is submitted and verification of the appropriate documents completed. Generally, the card is sent within 10 business days from the date of application is processed.