You can apply for Social Security retirement benefits over
the phone or in person. Here's how to apply and what you'll need when you do.
Difficulty Level:
Average Time Required:
1 hour
Here's
How:
Call Social Security at toll-free 1-800-772-1213. They will
make an appointment to take your application over the phone or at your closest
Social Security office.
The deaf or hard of hearing can call their TTY
number: 1-800-325-0778, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday - Friday
The
following information will be required when you apply:
Your Social
Security number
Your birth certificate
Your W-2 form or self-employment tax return
for last year
Your military discharge papers, if applicable
Your
spouse's Social
Security number and birth certificate if he or she is applying, as well
Your
children's
Social Security number(s) and birth certificate(s), if applying for children's
benefits
Proof of US citizenship or lawful alien status, ONLY IF you were
not born in the U.S.
Name of your
bank and account number for direct deposit of benefits
Submit original documents or copies certified by the issuing
office. All documents will be returned to you.
Benefits should start with
the first full month after you reach age 62 or 65. (See Related Features for
more details.)
View Related Features (below) for more information.
Tips:
Even if you plan to continue working, you should still sign-up
for Medicare 3 months before age 65.
Social Security can
send you a "Social Security Statement" showing your estimated future
benefits and how to apply for them. (See Related Features for more details.)
Time Required depends on availability of your required proof of
identification and other documents.
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