The three different types of Social Security are: Retirement Benefits- Almost every American worker's retirement plan includes Social Security. It offers qualified retirees and their families with supplemental income.  Survivor Benefits- Social Security can continue to pay payments to your spouse and children—and even your parents if you were supporting them—even after you pass away. You must have earned at least six Social Security credits in the three years prior to your death in order for your family to receive survivor payments. Your surviving spouse and children may be eligible for 71.5 percent to 100 percent of your Social Security payments, up to a maximum of 150 percent to 180 percent of your benefit rate, in addition to a one-time lump-sum payment of $255. Disability Benefits- The SSA has a very specific definition of "disability." You are only eligible for Social Security disability benefits if you are seriously handicapped by a condition that prevents you from working and is projected to persist a year or longer or cause death. You must also have accumulated enough credits to be compensated. To be eligible for disability compensation, you must be at least 62 years old and have earned all 40 credits. Younger applicants require fewer credits, with those under the age of 24 requiring only six credits. You must also have been employed prior to the onset of the condition.