Social Security has provided benefits to millions of Americans since its founding in 1935. As appealing as these benefits can be, the application process can be equally as intimidating. To ensure your application process goes as smoothly as possible, you may want to consider applying online. When applying for Social Security, it is very important that your information is as
thorough and accurate as possible. Entering information incorrectly could be the difference between you qualifying and not qualifying for bene-fits. Because of this, it is vital that you do everything you can to simplify the application process. Luckily, applying for Social Security online does just that. Here is why: One of the most frustrating parts about applying on paper is the gravity of one small mistake. Especially when applying for a large, selective government program, you want your application to be as pristine as possible. When applying online, you completely eliminate this from the equation — every edit is merely a click away. Again, when applying for such an important program, it is important
that you take as much of the guesswork out of your application as possible. Especially for those with messy handwriting, an online form may be a better way to go. In addition, for those with poor eyesight and vision loss or reading disorders like dyslexia, the online document allows you to zoom in and see the application more clearly. One of the biggest advantages of applying online is the lack of time constraints. Unlike applying in person, you can stop your application at anytime and return to it later on. While the application typically only takes around 30-45 minutes, this can help break up the process should you be unavailable for this chunk of time. Unlike the paperwork at
the SSA’s in-person offices, online applications are available to you 24/7. You will also have access to a variety of help desks online that can guide you through the process without having to physically wait in line. 5. You can apply from the comfort of your own home.For those who may find the application process stressful, applying from home allows you to do things in your own time, in your own space. It also keeps medical bills and other supporting documents conveniently at hand, without having to take them with you to fill out a physical application. To fill out your Social Security application, you can visit the SSA's website and begin as soon as you’re ready. Speaking with a Social Security AttorneySocial Security attorneys are an irreplaceable resource when filing for Social Security benefits. They can answer any questions you have about the process and expertly refine your application to be the best it can be. In fact, clients are statistically more likely to receive benefits when represented by legal counsel. If you are thinking about filing for Social Security, speak with an attorney today. There are a few ways you can apply for retirement Social Security benefits: Online at ssa.gov, in person at your local Social Security office, or over the phone by calling 800-772-1213. If you're ready to retire and start receiving a Social Security check, first make sure that you're eligible to apply for benefits. You must be a maximum of three months away from your 62nd birthday, and you must also be ready to start taking your benefits within the next four months. Key Takeaways
Applying OnlineIf you have access to a computer, then the easiest way to apply for retirement Social Security benefits is online. Visit ssa.gov, and click on the "Retirement" section on the main screen, then "Apply for Retirement Benefits." The system will walk you through the application process, asking you for personal information, beginning with your name, address, and Social Security number. NoteThe Social Security Administration (SSA) takes every precaution to safeguard your personal information online. As soon as you have entered the initial information, the system will give you an application number. Make a note of it, because you'll need it later if you want to finish your claim later or check the status of your completed claim. If you stop the application process in the middle, you can start again at any time without losing your work. When you want to access it again, revisit the Retirement Benefits section of the SSA website, and choose "Return to a Saved Application." You can also visit the same website to check on the status of your benefits after you've filed the application. Just choose "Check Application Status." NoteWith each item on the online application, there is a "More Info" button you can click on for help if you're unclear about what a question means or how to proceed. Information Needed to ApplyThe application process should not take long, but you'll need to have certain information on hand to make sure it goes smoothly, including the following when applicable:
The form will also ask about additional income and whether you have previously applied for SSI, other Social Security benefits, or Medicare. If you're married, your spouse may qualify for spousal benefits from Social Security as well. You'll also need your spouse's Social Security number, birth date, and other pertinent information when you apply. If your spouse signs up for Social Security benefits, he or she will have to provide the same information about you, too. If you are divorced, you may have to include your ex-spouse's information. Selecting a Benefit Start DateThe application will also ask you what date you want your benefits to start. A benefits estimator is built into the application to help you decide. The SSA pays out benefits the month after the start date you request. For example, if you indicate that you want your benefits to start in September, you'll receive your first check in October. Keep in mind that the amount on your benefit checks will depend on the age when you start collecting. The longer you can wait to start taking your payments, the more you will get each month. However, while you are not required to start receiving social security by age 70, your benefit will no longer increase by delaying the start date after that time. Submitting Your ApplicationYou can sign the application electronically and submit it online, so you don't need to mail it in. However, you may have to send backup documents, such as proof of birth, a Social Security card, or other proof of U.S. citizenship, and copies of your most recent W-2s or self-employment forms. If so, you will get an address and specific instructions on how to do so. Even if you don't have the documents, the Social Security Administration may be able to help you obtain them, and it cautions that you should not delay signing up. NoteMany fields in the online application don't accept punctuation or special characters of any kind. If you get an error message when you try to move to the next page, check all fields and remove punctuation. Once you sign the application online, keep a copy for your files by printing it out or saving it electronically. If the SSA has any additional questions, a representative will contact you directly. You can always call with questions of your own at 800-772-1213. You can also check your account status online by using the application number you received during your application process. What's the best way to apply for Social Security?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. Call ahead to make an appointment.. If you do not live in the U.S. or one of its territories, you can also contact your nearest U.S.. Is it safe to set up an online account with Social Security?Identity Verification
That's why we ask you to verify your identity to create a personal my Social Security account. We work with external partners to securely verify your identity. We do this to protect your data while making our online services easy for you to use.
What age is the break even point for Social Security?At around age 78 and 8 months, you reach the break-even point, when your cumulative benefits from claiming at 67 surpass those you'd get by taking retirement at 62.
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Is it better to apply for social security online or in person
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