Be at least 62 years old to claim retirement benefits early, or wait until full retirement age for full benefits
Earn enough work credits by paying Social Security taxes through covered employment
Work long enough to accumulate the required number of credits, usually 40 credits for retirement benefits
Meet disability requirements if applying for Social Security Disability Insurance
Have a qualifying medical condition expected to last at least one year or result in death for disability benefits
Be the spouse, ex-spouse, child, or dependent of a worker who qualifies, if applying for family benefits
Be a surviving spouse, child, or dependent parent of a deceased worker, if applying for survivor benefits
Be a U.S. citizen or meet eligible noncitizen requirements for certain benefits
Apply through the Social Security Administration with the required documents and information