Gather required information: Social Security number, birth certificate or proof of age, citizenship/immigration documents (if applicable), work history details (employer names, dates, wages), and bank account/routing number (for direct deposit)
Choose the type of Social Security benefit:
Retirement
Disability (SSDI/SSI)
Survivors
Medicare-related benefits (if applicable)
Apply online (most common):
Go to SSA.gov
Select “Apply for Benefits”
Choose the benefit type and complete the application
Apply by phone:
Call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213
Use TTY 1-800-325-0778
Apply in person:
Visit your local Social Security office
Use SSA’s “Office Locator” on SSA.gov to find the nearest office
Apply for SSI (if needed):
Use SSA.gov “Apply for SSI” or apply by phone/in person through SSA
Have income and resource information ready (bank accounts, savings, property, and other benefits)
Apply for disability benefits (if needed):
Use SSA’s online disability application or apply by phone/in person
Have medical information ready (doctors, hospitals, dates of treatment, medications, and test results)
Submit required documents:
Upload documents if the online application allows it
Otherwise, bring documents to your local office or follow SSA instructions
Review and submit the application:
Confirm all information is accurate
Submit and save confirmation numbers or receipts
Check application status:
Use “my Social Security” on SSA.gov or contact SSA if needed
Set up direct deposit (if eligible/available):
Provide bank account and routing information during application or follow SSA instructions
Watch for follow-up requests:
Respond promptly to SSA letters, calls, or document requests
Medicare timing (if applicable):
If applying for retirement benefits at the eligible age, confirm Medicare enrollment steps with SSA