Is it better to apply for Social Security in person or online?
While some may prefer to apply in person at their local Social Security office, an increasing number of retirees are finding it easier and more convenient to claim their benefits by retiring online at www.socialsecurity.gov.
How do I start the process of getting Social Security benefits?
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 get first Social Security check 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).
Can I apply for my SS benefits online?
You can apply online for Retirement or spouse's benefits or continue an application you already started. You must be at least 61 years and 9 months old and want your benefits to start no more than four months in the future.
How long does it take to apply for Social Security Online?
The idea of applying for Social Security retirement benefits might seem daunting, but it's not. There's no need to visit an office. You don't have to use the phone. We have an online retirement application that you can complete in as little as 15 minutes and from the comfort of your home or office.
How many months in advance should you apply for Social Security benefits?
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. Even if you are not ready to retire, you still should sign up for Medicare three months before your 65th birthday.
What documents do I need for 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...
Does it matter what month you start Social Security?
If you want your benefits to start in January, you can apply in September. Social Security benefits are paid in the month following the month they are due. If you are due benefits for the month of December, you will receive your first check in January for December.
What do I need to know before applying for Social Security?
You need to know your full retirement age (FRA) before you consider signing up for Social Security benefits. Your FRA is the age that the SSA deems you eligible to receive 100% of your monthly benefits. Your FRA is a dynamic number that's based on your birth year.
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).
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.
What is a copy of Social Security?
A copy of your Social Security Statement. The beginning and ending dates of any active U.S. military service you had before 1968. A list of the jobs (up to 5) that you had in the 15 years before you became unable to work and the dates you worked at those jobs.
How old do you have to be to apply for disability?
You can use the online application to apply for disability benefits if you: Are age 18 or older; Are not currently receiving benefits on your own Social Security record; Are unable to work because of a medical condition that is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death: and. Have not been denied disability benefits in the last 60 days.
Online Services
We are constantly expanding our online services to give you freedom and control when conducting business with Social Security.
my Social Security
You can access many of our online services with a free my Social Security Account.
Online Services for Businesses, Governments, Organizational Payees and Third Parties
Use Business Services Online to report wages and use our other online services for businesses.
Retirement
Whether you need help deciding when to retire or are ready to start the next chapter in your life, we have the tools you need to get started. No need to visit an office — estimate your benefits, apply for retirement, and check your application status online.
Disability
If the unexpected happens, Social Security may be able to help. 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.
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 the assistance they need.
Survivors
If you lose a loved one, we are there to help you get through the difficult time. We pay survivors benefits to widows, widowers, and to the dependents of eligible workers. Find out more about how we help protect you and your family.
Supplemental Security Income
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 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.
