- Make sure you want to apply. Make sure you make the right decision about when to apply. This is a decision that impacts the rest of your life.
- Assess eligibility. Make sure you are eligible. To apply for Social Security benefits you must be at least 61 years and 9 months old and have worked at ...
- Gather documents. This step might be the hardest part, but still very straightforward. ...
- Complete application. With the information listed above, you should be able to complete your application. In person at your local Social Security office.
- Monitor status. Once your application is submitted, the Social Security Administration will contact you if they have any questions.
When should I take Social Security to maximize my benefits?
You can expect the following when applying for Social Security spousal benefits:
- You can receive up to 50% of your spouse’s Social Security benefit.
- You can apply for benefits if you have been married for at least one year.
- If you have been divorced for at least two years, you can apply if the marriage lasted 10 or more years.
- Starting benefits early may lead to a reduction in payments.
How can I Check my SSI benefits?
- Verify your intent to file.
- Confirm the information provided.
- Obtain any additional information needed.
- Offer you the opportunity to provide your verbal consent to sign the application.
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.
When can you start collecting Social Security?
To claim Social Security spousal benefits, you’ll need to meet certain criteria, including being at least age 62 in most cases. Your spouse or ex-spouse also must be living. Keep in mind that the criteria for spousal benefits varies depending on whether you’re married or divorced.
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 many months in advance should I apply for Social Security?
four monthsYou can apply up to four months before you want your retirement benefits to start. For example, if you turn 62 on December 2, you can start your benefits as early as December, and apply in August.
What documents do you need to start collecting Social Security?
Social SecurityYour 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.More items...
At what age is Social Security no longer taxed?
At 65 to 67, depending on the year of your birth, you are at full retirement age and can get full Social Security retirement benefits tax-free.
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.
How much money can you have in the bank on Social Security retirement?
$2,000You can have up to $2,000 in cash or in the bank and still qualify for, or collect, SSI (Supplemental Security Income).
How soon after your birthday do you get your first Social Security check?
Payment Schedules This means that if you turn 62 on Dec. 15, then your first payment will arrive on the third Wednesday of the following February. If your birthday is Dec. 15 and you are already over age 62, then your first payment should arrive on the third Wednesday of the month following the month when you apply.
What is the average Social Security benefit at age 62?
According to payout statistics from the Social Security Administration in June 2020, the average Social Security benefit at age 62 is $1,130.16 a month, or $13,561.92 a year.
Can you collect Social Security at 62 and still work?
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.
How do I know how much Social Security I will receive?
Visit the Social Security website and use one of its online benefit calculators to determine your retirement estimate based on your earnings record. 4. Wait until you decide to start receiving benefits, and let the SSA calculate the amount for you.
Do you automatically get Medicare with Social Security?
You automatically get Medicare because you're getting benefits from Social Security (or the Railroad Retirement Board). Part B covers certain doctors' services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services.
Apply for Retirement Benefits
Starting your Social Security retirement benefits is a major step on your retirement journey. This page will guide you through the process of applying for retirement benefits when you’re ready to take that step. Our online application is a convenient way to apply on your own schedule, without an appointment.
Ready To Retire?
Before you apply, take time to review the basics, understand the process, and gather the documents you’ll need to complete an application.
How to apply for Social Security benefits in person?
You can do that by phone at 800-772-1213, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET. To apply for Social Security of any kind while living abroad, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
How to apply for survivor benefits?
To apply for survivor benefits, make sure you have: 1 The Social Security number and death certificate of the late wage earner on whose record you are applying. 2 Your Social Security number and those of any dependent children. 3 Your birth certificate or an acceptable religious record of your birth (such as a baptismal certificate). 4 Your marriage certificate (and divorce papers if filing as a former spouse ). 5 Tax records documenting your earnings.
Can I update my Social Security number online?
Many Social Security services are available online and by phone. If you have a "dire need situation" regarding your benefits or need to update information attached to your Social Security number, such as your name or citizenship status, you may be able to schedule an in-person appointment.
What is SSI for disabled people?
We are with those who need a helping hand. The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program provides support to disabled adults and children who have limited income and resources, as well as people age 65 and older who are not disabled but have limited income and resources.
Why do we pay disability benefits to people who can't work?
We pay disability benefits to those who can’t work because they have a medical condition that’s expected to last at least one year or result in death. Find out how Social Security can help you and how you can manage your benefits. LEARN MORE.
What is the age limit for Medicare?
Medicare. Medicare is our country’s health insurance program for people 65 or older. Certain people younger than age 65 can qualify for Medicare too, including those with disabilities and those who have permanent kidney failure. Social Security works with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to ensure the public receives ...
How do I apply for disability benefits?
You can apply for Disability benefits online, or if you are unable to complete the application online, you can apply by calling our toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213, between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
How long does it take to get SSDI?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits have a five month waiting period, which means that benefit payments will not begin before the sixth full month of disability. The SSDI waiting period begins the first full month after the date we decide your disability began.
When will I get my ALS disability?
There is no waiting period if your disability results from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and you are approved for SSDI benefits on or after July 23, 2020. We pay Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability benefits for the first full month after the date you filed your claim, or, if later, the date you become eligible for SSI.
What to do if you are not getting survivors benefits?
If you are not getting benefits. If you are not getting benefits, you should apply for survivors benefits promptly because, in some cases, benefits may not be retroactive.
Can you get survivors benefits if you die?
The Basics About Survivors Benefits. Your family members may receive survivors benefits if you die. If you are working and paying into Social Security, some of those taxes you pay are for survivors benefits. Your spouse, children, and parents could be eligible for benefits based on your earnings.
Documents you may need to provide
We may ask you to provide documents to show that you are eligible, such as:
What we will ask you
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.
