- A Birth Certificate. The SSA will typically request a birth certificate to prove your age. ...
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship. In addition to checking that your age makes you eligible for Social Security benefits, the SSA will want to ensure you are a U.S. citizen.
- Social Security Card. You'll need to provide your Social Security number to receive retirement benefits. ...
- Identification Card. To prove your identity, you can show one of several documents. A U.S. driver's license, a state-issued non-driver identification card or a U.S. ...
- Employment Records. When filling out an application, you'll need to have a copy of your W-2 forms from the prior year. ...
- Spousal Records. If you are applying for a Social Security spousal benefit, you may be asked for certain documents to show proof of marriage.
- Military Service Documentation. If you served in the military before 1968, the SSA will ask you to provide a copy of your U.S. military service papers.
What documents are needed for Social Security retirement?
- The name and address of your employer (s) for this year and last year;
- The amount of money earned last year and this year. ...
- A copy of your Social Security Statement or a record of your earnings. ...
- The beginning and ending dates of any active U.S. ...
How do you file for Social Security?
Key Points
- Your benefit amount isn't set in stone, and there are factors that could reduce your payments.
- Your age, income, and where you live could all affect your benefit amount.
- By being aware of these factors, it will be easier to prepare for retirement.
What is the best age to apply for Social Security?
from San Antonio recently wrote me: “I have read a lot about postponing Social Security until age 70. Have you ever calculated ... If you’re in that group you want to do it right. You want to apply some thoughtful math and probabilities to your ...
Where do I apply for Social Security?
Applying for Social Security benefits is a major financial decision, and deciding when to do it can have significant effects on the amount of money you receive in retirement and when. Applying for ...
What documents are needed to claim Social Security benefits?
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...
How do I apply for Social Security for the first time?
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 long does it take to start receiving Social Security benefits after applying?
approximately six weeksThe 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.
What information do I need to set up a My Social Security account?
To set up a My Social Security account, you must be at least 18 and have a Social Security number, a valid email address and a U.S. mailing address.
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.
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 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's the lowest amount of Social Security you can get?
The first full special minimum PIA in 1973 was $170 per month. Beginning in 1979, its value has increased with price growth and is $886 per month in 2020. The number of beneficiaries receiving the special minimum PIA has declined from about 200,000 in the early 1990s to about 32,100 in 2019.
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).
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.
What questions does Social Security ask to verify identity?
To verify the identity of the signer, we match the disability applicant's answers during the application process with the following information in our records: name, date of birth, Social Security number, place of birth, work history, and mother's maiden name.
Which credit report does Social Security use?
EquifaxThe SSA currently uses Equifax to help it verify “out-of-wallet” information about someone who wants to create an online account.
What do you need to supply to the SSA?
What you do (or did) for a living may have an impact on your benefits, so you’ll need to supply the SSA with some employment information as well. This includes the name and address of your employer for both this year and last year.
Do you have to include Social Security in retirement?
Don’t forget to include Social Security payments in your retirementplans. They may not have a titanic impact on your finances in retirement, but they can line your pockets with some extra cash when you might need it. SmartAsset’s Social Security calculator can help you get an idea of your future benefits.
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 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 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 don't have all your Social Security documents?
If You Don't Have All Of The Documents. Even if you don't have everything, don't delay applying for Social Security retirement benefits. You can provide the missing documents later. We may be able to help you get them. In many cases, your local Social Security office can contact your state Bureau of Vital Statistics and verify your information ...
What to do if you don't have all the documents?
If You Don't Have All Of The Documents. Even if you don't have everything, don't delay applying for Social Security retirement benefits . You can provide the missing documents later. We may be able to help you get them.
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.
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 ...