PIA
PIA is the base monthly Social Security benefit you would get at full retirement age. SSDI payments are also based on the PIA.
Also known as
Related terms
- AIME
AIME is a monthly average of your highest earning years, adjusted for wage growth. Social Security uses it to figure out your SSDI or retirement payment.
- Bend Points
Bend Points are the dollar thresholds SSA uses to turn your AIME into a benefit amount. They give a higher percentage of benefits to lower lifetime earnings.
- Social Security Retirement Benefits
Monthly cash benefits paid by the SSA to workers who have earned sufficient work credits and choose to begin collecting retirement benefits, available as early as age 62 (reduced) or as late as age 70 (maximum).
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Frequently asked questions about PIA
What is PIA?+
Primary Insurance Amount, the base benefit Social Security uses for retirement and SSDI.
Who qualifies for PIA?+
Anyone with an earnings record at SSA.
How do I apply for PIA?+
SSA calculates it; you can estimate yours at ssa.gov/myaccount.
Where can I get help?+
Call BenefitKarma at (866) 201-2604 or use our free benefit screener.