You can apply for Social Security retirement benefits on the Internet at www.ssa.gov, the Social Security Administration’s (SSA’s) Web site. You’ll fill out the online application and send the information electronically to the agency.
In addition, you must print out a copy of the completed application form, sign it, and mail it or bring it to the address provided by Social Security. Along with the signed form, SSA also needs certain documents, such as a person’s birth certificate, to establish eligibility for Social Security benefits.
You can either mail or take these items to Social Security. The electronic application will be stored on a database and automatically retrieved when Social Security receives your signed application. Individuals must meet certain conditions in order to apply for Social Security online: you must be at least 61 years and 9 months and plan to start receiving retirement benefits within four months.
You also can apply for Social Security by making an appointment at a local Social Security office (look in the government listings of your local phone book) or by calling 1-800-772-1213.
