How To Apply For Social Security Benefits

Contact the Social Security Administration when you are ready to file for benefits. If you are just thinking about filing for retirement benefits, we suggest you talk with a Social Security representative a few months before the year you plan to retire. To file for disability or survivors benefits, you should apply as soon as you are eligible.

You also can apply for benefits on the Social Security Administration’s  website. Go to www.socialsecurity.gov and click on “Apply for retirement benefits.”

You also can calculate your benefit amount at www.socialsecurity.gov/planners.

What you will need to apply

When you apply for benefits, you will be required to provide certain documents. The documents required depend on the type of benefits you are filing for. Providing these documents quickly will help the Social Security Administration pay your benefits faster. You must submit original documents or copies certified by the issuing office.

Do not delay filing an application just because you do not have all of the documents you need.  Here is a list of some documents you may need when you sign up for Social Security:

• Your Social Security card (or a record of your number);
• Your birth certificate;
• Your children’s birth certificates (if they are applying);
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status if you (or a child who is applying) were not born in the United States;
• Your spouse’s birth certificate and Social Security number if he or she is applying for benefits based on your earnings;
• Marriage certificate (if signing up on a spouse’s earnings);
• Your military discharge papers if you had military service; and
• Your most recent W-2 form, or your tax return, if you are self-employed.

How benefits are paid

Social Security benefits generally are paid by direct deposit. Direct deposit is a simple, safe and secure way to receive your benefits. Be sure to have your checkbook or account statement with you when you apply. The Social Security Administration will need that information to make sure your monthly benefit is correctly deposited into your account.

If you do not want direct deposit, the SSA will make other arrangements to pay your monthly benefits.