
Follow these steps to apply online:
- To start your application, go to our Apply for Benefits page, read and agree to the Terms of Service. Click “Next.”
- On that page, review the “Getting Ready” section to make sure you have the information you need to apply.
- Select “Start A New Application.”
- We will ask a few questions about who is filling out the application.
- You will then sign into your my Social Security account or you will be prompted to create one.
- Complete the application.
How do you check your Social Security benefit?
Your Social Security Statement (Statement) is available to view online by opening a my Social Security account. It is useful for people of all ages who want to learn about their future Social Security benefits and current earnings history.
Where do I go to apply for Social Security benefits?
Where do I go to apply for Social Security benefits?
- Local Office. There are over 1,200 social security offices located throughout the country, and there is at least one in each state.
- Applying Online. There are a few benefits to applying for disability benefits online. ...
- Attorney or Advocate Help. ...
- Additional Resources. ...
How do I determine my social security benefit?
Try refreshing the page. Today's Social Security column addresses questions about how Social Security spousal benefits are calculated, whether it's necessary to file in January to get a given year's COLA and what effects of benefits rates not paying taxes can have.
How to look up your Social Security benefits?
Here’s a look at the few options there are ... For 2022, you can earn up to $19,560 before your Social Security benefits are reduced. In the year you reach full retirement age, that limit ...

Is it better to apply for Social Security online or in person?
Applying online is the easiest way to complete your application at a time that works for you, without a trip to the Social Security office.
How long does it take to get Social Security after you apply?
Once you have applied, it could take up to three months to receive your first benefit payment. Social Security benefits are paid monthly, starting in the month after the birthday at which you attain full retirement age (which is currently 66 and will gradually rise to 67 over the next several years).
How do I start to collect my Social Security?
You can apply:Online; or.By calling our national toll-free service at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or visiting your local Social Security office. ... If you do not live in the U.S. or one of its territories, you can also contact your nearest U.S. Social Security office, U.S. Embassy or consulate.
How much money can you have in the bank on Social Security?
$2,000The limit for countable resources is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple.
What month do you get your first Social Security check?
Social Security benefits are paid the month after they are due. If you tell us you want your benefits to start in May, you will receive your first benefit check in June.
Can I draw Social Security at 62 and still work full time?
Can You Collect Social Security at 62 and Still Work? You can collect Social Security retirement benefits at age 62 and still work. If you earn over a certain amount, however, your benefits will be temporarily reduced until you reach full retirement age.
What is the average Social Security benefit at age 62?
$2,364At age 62: $2,364. At age 65: $2,993. At age 66: $3,240. At age 70: $4,194.
Is it better to take Social Security at 62 or 67?
The short answer is yes. Retirees who begin collecting Social Security at 62 instead of at the full retirement age (67 for those born in 1960 or later) can expect their monthly benefits to be 30% lower. So, delaying claiming until 67 will result in a larger monthly check.
When do you get your Social Security check?
If you are due benefits for the month of December, you will receive your first check in January for December.
How long do you have to withdraw Social Security?
Sometimes, life changes occur after you submit your application. You have up to 12 months to withdraw your application, if you change your mind. You will be required to repay any benefits you’ve already received. Learn more about Withdrawing Your Social Security Retirement Application.
What to do if you get stuck on a question?
If you get stuck on a question, you can skip to the next question and come back later.
How old do you have to be to get unemployment?
You must be at least age 62 for the entire month to be eligible to receive benefits. If you were born on the first or second day of the month, you meet this requirement in the month of your 62nd birthday. If you were born on any other day of the month, you do not meet this requirement until the following month.
How to get a Social Security verification letter?
If you have questions or need help understanding how to request your benefit verification letter online, call our toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your Social Security office. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call our toll-free TTY number, 1-800-325-0778, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
What can I use my Social Security letter for?
You may use your letter for loans, housing assistance, mortgage, and for other income verification purposes. You can also use it to prove that you don't receive benefits, have applied for benefits, or that you have never received Social Security benefits or SSI.
How long does it take to create a Social Security account?
Creating a free my Social Security account takes less than 10 minutes, lets you download or print your benefit verification letter, and gives you access to many other online services.
What is a benefit verification letter?
The Benefit Verification letter, sometimes called a "budget letter," a "benefits letter," a "proof of income letter," or a "proof of award letter," serves as proof of your retirement, disability, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or Medicare benefits.
When do you get your Social Security statement?
For workers age 60 and older who do not have a my Social Security account, we currently mail Social Security Statements three months prior to your birthday.
Why are fact sheets important for Social Security?
The fact sheets are designed to provide clarity and useful information, based on your age group and earnings situation. They can help you better understand Social Security programs and benefits.
What is the phone number to call for Social Security?
If you can’t or don’t want to use your my Social Security account, or you need a letter for someone other than yourself, you can call us at 1-800-772-1213 ( TTY 1-800-325-0778) , Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm.
How to get a benefit verification letter?
How can I get a benefit verification letter? If you need proof that you get Social Security benefits, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Medicare, you can get a benefit verification letter online by using your my Social Security account. This letter is sometimes called a "budget letter," a "benefits letter," a "proof ...
Can I get a verification letter for my SSI?
If you get SSI benefits, you will need to contact us to update the address. You cannot get a benefit verification letter online for another person, such as a spouse or child , unless the person is a beneficiary for whom you are an active representative payee.
