How to use Web, direct retirement benefits

Q: Does Social Security have online tools to help me plan my retirement?

A: The latest is our new online Retirement Estimator, which allows you to test several scenarios to give you an accurate estimate of what you can expect and help you determine the best date for you to retire. Check it out at www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator.

Social Security also has several benefit planners designed to help people with planning their retirement.

You can learn more at www.socialsecurity.gov.

No bank account? Use Direct Express

Q: I know Social Security has direct deposit, but what if I don’t have an existing bank account?

A: You can sign up for the new Direct Express card. The Direct Express card is a debit card you can use to access your benefits.

With the Direct Express card program, we deposit your federal benefit payment directly onto your card. Your monthly benefits will be available on your payment day — on time, every time.

You can use the card to make purchases, pay bills or get cash at thousands of locations. And most transactions are free. The Direct Express card is both safer and more convenient than paper checks.

For more information, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/deposit. Or, call the toll-free Direct Express card hot line at (877) 212-9991.

This column was prepared by the Social Security Administration. For fast answers to specific Social Security questions, contact Social Security toll-free at (800) 772-1213; TTY (800) 325-0778.