You can apply: You can help by being ready to:
Documents you may need to provideWe may ask you to provide documents to show that you are eligible, such as:
Important We accept photocopies of W-2 forms, self-employment tax returns or medical documents, but we must see the original of most other documents, such as your birth certificate. (We will return them to you.) Do not delay applying for benefits because you do not have all the documents. We will help you get them. What we will ask you
Note You also should bring along 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. What documents are required for Social Security benefits?Social Security. Your 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.. What are the requirements for Social Security retirement?To be eligible for most types of benefits (such as benefits based on blindness or retirement), you must have earned an average of one work credit for each calendar year between age 21 and the year in which you reach age 62 or become disabled or blind, up to a maximum of 40 credits.
How many months in advance should you apply for Social Security benefits?You should apply for retirement benefits four months before you want your payments to start. The easiest and most convenient way to apply for retirement benefits is by using our online application. You will be asked to create or log in to your personal my Social Security account.
What do I need to apply for Social Security for the first time?These documents may include:. Your original birth certificate or other proof of your age. ... . Proof of U.S. citizenship if you were not born in the U.S. and have not submitted proof for an earlier Medicare or Social Security claim. ... . A copy of your W-2 tax form(s) and/or self-employment tax return from last year.. |