How to File for Social Security Pay
Social security pay is the retirement income you receive for having paid social security taxes while working. Social security is also paid to people who can no longer work as a result of a disability (social security disability income), and in some cases, to surviving spouses and children. When you file for social security pay, you file for Medicare at the same time. Although Medicare is a separate program, when you receive one, you normally receive the other.
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Instructions
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1
Determine if and when you are eligible to receive social security pay. If you have worked and paid social security taxes for 10 years or more (lifetime total), you are entitled to receive social security income. The minimum age for receiving social security retirement benefits is 62. However, if you opt for early retirement, your monthly checks will be reduced. Surviving spouses and children of a person who was entitled to social security benefits may be eligible to receive benefits. For a person who has been disabled as an adult after working at least five years (total), a determination is made on a case-by-case basis (see Step 6).
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2
Gather the required documents to file for social security pay. You'll need your social security number and a certified copy of your birth certificate, or your naturalization papers. If you served in the armed forces, you will need your military discharge papers. You must also provide your W-2 form or a copy of your income tax return from the previous year (or the last year you worked). If you lack any documents, the Social Security Administration can help you obtain them. Call their helpline for assistance at (800) 772-1213.
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3
Use the Social Security Administration's online system to file for social security (see Resources). The Social Security Administration suggests that you start the application process at least three months before you want your benefits to begin. If you need to obtain a copy of your birth certificate, add several weeks; you can order a certified copy from the Office of Vital Records (or Vital Statistics) in the state where you were born. Mail the documents to the address on the application. You may send photocopies of your W-2, but the other documents must be originals.
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4
Call to file for social security pay by phone, or to make an appointment to do so in person at your local social security office. For either option, call (800) 772-1213. An appointment is not required, but it is recommended. Be sure to bring all of the required documents with you for an in-person appointment.
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5
Provide the Social Security Administration with the routing and account numbers for your checking account so they can send you the monthly payment by direct deposit. If you do not have a checking account, request a free debit card. Your monthly social security pay will automatically be added to the balance of the debit card.
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6
Apply for social security disability income (SSDI) if you have become disabled and can no longer work. Applications for social security disability must be made in person at a local office. You may make the appointment by calling the toll free number in Step 2. You will need documentation of the limitations imposed by the impairment (normally this is a signed statement from your physician). Your claim will be reviewed and a determination of eligibility made. If you are not approved for SSDI, and believe an error has been made, you have a right to appeal, but you may need legal representation.
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Tips & Warnings
You may file for Medicare benefits at age 65, even if you choose not to file for social security pay until later. The application process is exactly the same. Simply indicate that you are filing for Medicare only. Doing so will not affect the amount you receive in social security pay.
