- 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 to calculate your projected Social Security benefit?
- For every dollar of average indexed monthly earnings up to $926, you’ll get 90 cents per month in benefits.
- For every dollar of average indexed monthly earnings between $927 and $5,583 you’ll get $.32 cents per month in benefits.
- For every dollar of average indexed monthly earnings beyond $5,583 you’ll get $.15 cents per month in benefits.
How to qualify for the maximum Social Security benefit?
- $2,324 at age 62.
- $3,148 at age 66 and 2 months.
- $3,895 at age 70.
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.
How long does it take to start getting Social Security checks after applying?
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 begin getting 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.
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...
What should I do when I am ready to collect Social Security?
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.
Can I draw Social Security at 62 and still work full time?
You can get Social Security retirement or survivors benefits and work at the same time. But, if you're younger than full retirement age, and earn more than certain amounts, your benefits will be reduced.
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.
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).
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.
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.
Do you pay taxes on Social Security?
Some people who get Social Security must pay federal income taxes on their benefits. However, no one pays taxes on more than 85% percent of their Social Security benefits. You must pay taxes on your benefits if you file a federal tax return as an “individual” and your “combined income” exceeds $25,000.
How much can I make the first year I draw Social Security?
For this year, the earnings cap is $15,120. That is why there is a special one-year rule that applies to earnings during the first year of retirement. Under this rule, an individual can get a full Social Security check for any whole month he or she is retired, regardless of yearly earnings prior to claiming benefits.
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 maximize Social Security?
Or, you might consider the following rules of thumb: 1 Take Early: The only people who should consider taking their Social Security early are those who absolutely need the money immediately, or those who do not expect to live for very long, due to illness 2 Take at Full Retirement Age: Should you have reason to believe that you will not live past the age of 80, then generally speaking you will maximize your social security benefits if you take them when you reach your Full Retirement Age. 3 Wait as Long as Possible: On the other hand, if you are confident that you will live past the age of 80 or 85, then most experts recommend that you defer your social security for as long as you can (age 70), so as to maximize the benefits you receive from it. 4 Other: If you have dependent children, the additional benefits you receive for them might make filing when you are younger worthwhile.
What age do you need to be to get your spouse's Social Security number?
Spouse’s Social Security number and birth date and the beginning and ending dates of marriage (s) Names and birth dates of any children who became disabled prior to age 22 or who are under age 18 (and unmarried). You will also want names and birth dates for children who are aged 18-19 who are still attending secondary school full time.
How much is deducted from Social Security?
For every month prior to your full retirement age that you begin taking benefits, around 0.55% is deducted from your payout. And, for every year that you defer your benefits, you will receive a larger amount when you finally do begin drawing Social Security. The amount of the bonus is dependent, once more, on your birth date.
What age do you have to be to get SSI?
The SSI program provides monthly payments to people who: Are at least age 65 or blind or disabled. Have limited income (wages, pensions, etc.). Have limited resources (the things you own). Are U.S. citizens, nationals of the U.S., or some noncitizens.
Can I get less SSI?
You may get less if you have other income such as wages, pensions, or Social Security benefits. You may also get less if someone pays your household expenses or if you live with a spouse and he or she has income. You may be able to get SSI if your resources are worth $2,000 or less.
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 contact Social Security?
There are a number of things you can do online. In addition to using our website, you can call us toll-free at 1-800-772-1213. We treat all calls confidentially.
What is the number to call for Social Security?
If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call our TTY number, 1-800-325-0778. We also want to make sure you receive accurate and courteous service. That is why we have a second Social Security representative monitor some telephone calls.
Can I get a higher Social Security if my ex-husband dies?
For example, if your spouse or ex-spouse dies, you may become eligible for a higher Social Security benefit. To find out if you, or a family member, might be eligible for a benefit based on another person’s work, or a higher benefit based on your own work, see the information about benefits on the Social Security website.
Can my child get Social Security based on work?
Your child may be eligible for benefits based on your work. Are you receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security benefits and have past military service? If you served in the U.S. military, you may be eligible for benefits through the Veterans Administration.
Can I get Social Security at 65?
If you are at least age 65, you may be eligible for cash benefits on your own record. If you are full retirement age or older, you can work and receive your monthly Social Security benefits, no matter how much you earn. Please review this publication for more information.
Can my survivor benefit increase if my spouse dies?
Has your spouse or ex-spouse died? If your spouse or ex-spouse has died, you may be eligible for a higher survivor benefit based on his or her work. The death of an ex-spouse may allow you to be eligible for a higher survivor benefit even ...
Can you change your Social Security benefits?
It's not unusual for a benefit recipient's circumstances to change after they apply or became eligible for benefits. If you, or a family member, receive Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), certain life changes may affect eligibility for an increase in your federal benefits.
