Here's the information you need to start your Social Security application.
- A Birth Certificate. The SSA will typically request a birth certificate to prove your age. ...
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship. ...
- Social Security Card. You'll need to provide your Social Security number to receive retirement benefits. ...
- Identification Card. ...
- Employment Records. ...
- Spousal Records. ...
- Military Service Documentation. ...
Full Answer
What documents are needed to claim social security?
Documents You’ll Need. When it’s time to apply for your Social Security benefits, you’ll need to have the following documents in hand: Your Social Security card; Your original birth certificate, or a certified copy; Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status; Military service papers, if applicable; Your W-2 form from the last year
Do I need an appointment to apply for Social Security?
You may not be required to schedule a local Social Security office appointment before you apply for benefits. However, if this option is available, considering taking advantage of it. If you have a SS appointment, you have a greater likelihood of being able to speak with a representative in the office promptly.
What do you need to know about social security?
The total US economy plus the core US monetary base combine to less than half the present value of unfunded Social Security and Medicare liabilities. Scouring $600 bank transactions for “opaque income” cannot solve the US Treasury’s financial problems; this is arithmetic.
How to start 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.
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...
What is the first step in applying for Social Security?
Just follow these 5 steps.Step 1: Make sure you want to apply. Make sure you make the right decision about when to apply. ... Step 2: Assess eligibility. Make sure you are eligible. ... Step 3: Gather documents. ... Step 4: Complete application. ... Step 5: Monitor status.
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).
What questions are asked when applying for Social Security benefits?
What is the maximum Social Security retirement benefit payable? At what age should I start receiving my Social Security retirement benefits? Will you lower my Social Security benefits if I get a pension from work not covered by Social Security? How do I apply for Social Security retirement benefits?
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.
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).
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.
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.
What day of the month is Social Security paid?
RSDI (Retirement, Survivors and Disability) also referred to as SSA Benefits. Since June 1997 SSA delivers recurring RSDI benefits on four days throughout the month on the 3rd of the month and on the second, third and fourth Wednesdays of the month.
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.
Is your first Social Security check retroactive?
All of which brings us to retroactive benefits. Here are the rules: If you first claim Social Security after reaching full retirement age, you can backdate your application and receive benefits for the months after reaching your full retirement age, not to exceed six months.