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.
How do I start getting social security? The quickest way to apply for Social Security benefits is to fill in the application form online. You can apply as soon as you are 61 years and 9 months old, and can start receiving benefits as soon as you are 62 years old.
How do you become eligible for Social Security? To be eligible for a Social Security pension benefit, you must be at least 62 years old and have a minimum of 40 Social Security credits. A credit is equal to a designated amount of earnings that increases from year to year based on national earnings averages.
What do I need to know about social security? Established in 1935, Social Security was set up to help the U.S. recover from the Great Depression. The program acted as a government insurance system to help the elderly, disabled and veterans cover their living expenses. All U.S. workers pay into the Social Security system through payroll taxes.
Who can help me apply for Social Security benefits? Tap into Social Service Options. Social service workers, disability advocates, and others can help with disability applications in some cases. For example, in many states, family social services staff often assists parents and guardians in applying for SSI benefits on behalf of a disabled child.
What’s the best age for you to start taking social security?
What’s the best age for you to start taking social security? You can start collecting Social Security benefits any time between ages 62 and 70. The best age for Social Security benefits depends on personal and financial factors, like your current cash needs, retirement plans, health and family history.
How old do you have to be to start Social Security? You can start receiving your social security as early as age 62 and as late as age 70. But you are entitled to full benefits when you reach normal retirement age or “full retirement age” according to the Social Security Administration.
How do you become eligible for Social Security? To be eligible for a Social Security pension benefit, you must be at least 62 years old and have a minimum of 40 Social Security credits. A credit is equal to a designated amount of earnings that increases from year to year based on national earnings averages.
Can I work and still get Social Security? Yes, you can work and still receive Social Security disability benefits (SSD) under the Social Security Administration’s work incentive programs.