You can apply: You can help by being ready to: We may ask you to provide documents to show that you are eligible, such as: Important We accept photocopies of W-2 forms, self-employment tax returns or medical
documents, but we must see the original of most other documents, such as your birth certificate. (We will return them to you.) Do not delay applying for benefits because you do not have all the documents. We will help you get them. What we will ask you
Depending on the information you provide, we may need to ask other questions. Note You should also have your checkbook or other papers that show your account number at a bank, credit union or other financial institution so you can sign up for Direct Deposit, and avoid worries about lost or stolen checks and mail delays. You should apply for retirement benefits four months before you want your benefits to start. The easiest and most convenient way to apply for retirement benefits is by using our online application. You will need to create or log in to your personal my Social Security account. If we are not able to process your request, you will receive specific information on how to contact us by phone or schedule an appointment. Apply for Retirement Benefits
For more information, go to Apply for Retirement Benefits. You can also apply:
If you do not live in the U.S. or one of its territories you can also - Contact the nearest U.S. Social Security office, U.S. Embassy or consulate. Other Questions You May Find Helpful
You should apply for retirement benefits four months before you want your payments to start. The easiest and most convenient way to apply for retirement benefits is by using our online application. You will be asked to create or log in to your personal my Social Security account. If we are not able to process your request, you will receive specific information on how to contact us by phone or schedule an appointment. Apply for Retirement Benefits
For more information, go to Applying Online for Retirement Benefits. You can also apply:
If you do not live in the U.S. or one of its territories you can also - Contact the nearest U.S. Social Security office, U.S. Embassy or consulate. Other Questions You May Find Helpful
How do I start my Social Security retirement benefits?Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, to apply by phone.
How long does it take for a Social Security retirement application to be approved?The Social Security approval process is relatively speedy, but as it is a government program with a huge number of applicants, you can expect to wait approximately six weeks before you get your approval for benefits. Bear in mind that this timetable only applies if everything runs smoothly.
What documents are needed for Social Security retirement benefits?What Documents Do You Need to Apply for Retirement Benefits? (En español). Your Social Security card or a record of your number.. Your original birth certificate, a copy certified by the issuing agency, or other proof of your age. ... . If you were not born in the U.S., proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status.. Can you print Social Security forms?If you download, print and complete a paper form, please mail or take it to your local Social Security office or the office that requested it from you. Important Note: PDFs you open from this page may default to opening within a browser, depending on your browser settings.
|