Social Security is an important source of income for older Americans, but it can also provide many benefits beyond retirement income. Life is full of risks, and Social Security helps provide some income for those who have faced these situations. Think about these statistics: In 2014, 3.3 million kids received Social Security benefits 34% of all benefits are paid to the spouse or child of the covered worker Average age folks begin to receive disability benefits is 54 Over 24% of today's 20-year-olds will become disabled before the age of 67 As you can see, understanding Social Security benefits is an crucial part of your overall financial planning. Today, Devin and John talk about the non-retirement benefits provided by the Social Security program, and why they are important to you.   There are two main categories of benefits: Benefits for the worker, and benefit for the worker's family. Benefits for the worker include retirement income, disability income, and Medicare health care coverage for the disabled. Benefits for the worker's family include benefits for the worker's spouse and family if the worker dies or becomes disabled.   Highlights include: What is a family maximum benefit? When and how you can receive survivor or disability benefits How various financial plans can impact eligibility for benefits How you might want to use this knowledge as part of your financial plan For more information, visit http://bigpictureretirement.net