On July 4, people in communities everywhere celebrate our nation's independence with neighbors, family, and friends. A strong community promotes independence by helping each other lead full and productive lives.

Social Security has been helping people maintain a higher quality of life and a level of independence for over 80 years. Over those decades, we've made it even easier for you to access the programs and benefits you might need. Now, applying online is the fastest way to get those crucial benefits.

Here are some the types of benefits you can apply for:

- Retirement or Spouse's Benefits. You must be at least 61 years and 9 months old and want your benefits to start no more than four months in the future. Apply at www.socialsecurity.gov/retireonline.

- Disability. You can apply online for disability benefits or continue an application you already started. Apply for Disability at www.socialsecurity.gov/disabilityonline.

- Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Costs. Many people need assistance with the cost of medications. Apply for Extra Help at www.socialsecurity.gov/i1020.

- Medicare. Medicare is a national health insurance program administered by the U.S. federal government that began in 1966. You can apply online or continue an application you already started at www.socialsecurity.gov/retireonline.

- Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI is a federal income program funded by general tax revenues designed to help aged, blind, and disabled people who have little or no income. You may be able to apply online if you meet certain requirements. See if you can apply online for SSI at www.socialsecurity.gov/benefits/ssi.

Social Security provides benefits for millions of people including wounded warriors and children, the chronically ill and the disabled who cannot work. Find the help you or your family need at www.socialsecurity.gov/benefits.

Don't forget, our many online services can provide you and the ones you love with lifelong independence. From replacing a lost Social Security card to estimating your benefits, you can access these powerful tools at www.socialsecurity.gov/onlineservices.

ABOUT THE WRITER

Nicole Tiggemann, Social Security spokesperson.