German armies used the Skull & Cross bones many times. In the image above we see the Totenkopf, a German word for the deathmanÂ´s head. This is an old symbol of momenti mori. It consists usually of the skull and the mandible of the human skeleton.
You generally need to work for 10 years to qualify for benefits (unless youâre receiving benefits through a spouse -- see How Spouses Can Maximize Social Security Benefits for more information). The maximum earnings that count toward your benefit are $118,500 in 2015.
Here's a look at how to predict how much you will get from Social Security in retirement. [See 10 Ways to Boost Your Social Security Checks.] Consider the averages. In June 2011, the average Social Security benefit was $1,180.80 per month.