How to File for Social Security Online

The Social Security Administration is now technologically savvy, and people can file for Social Security online. If you have a computer and a connection to the Internet, follow the steps below to file for Social Security benefits online.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Name
• Date of birth
• Social Security number
• Earnings for the previous year
• Estimated earnings for the next year
• Name and address of current employer for current year and last year
• Beginning and ending dates of military service prior to 1968
• Name, date of birth and Social Security number of current spouse and any former spouses.
• Social Security earnings statement-Apply online anyway if you do not have the earnings statement. You do not have to wait to file for Social Security benefits if you do not have the earnings statement

1. To file for Social Security online, go to Social Security Online Services. The link is in the resource section below.

2. Apply for Social Security online if you are at least 61 years and nine months old, if you want to start collecting Social Security benefits in the next four months and if you live in the United States.

3. If you are not sure if you qualify for Social Security benefits, click the "Do you qualify for Social Security benefits?" link.

4. If you're ready to apply for Social Security benefits online, click the "Apply for benefits" link. Then click the "Apply for Social Security retirement or spouse's benefits." You can estimate your benefits or begin the application.

5. Fill out the Social Security online application. You will be asked to confirm your answers. Keep in mind that you can be held liable by law for providing misleading and false information.

6. Sign the Social Security online form electronically by clicking the "Sign Now" button. The "Sign Now" button will appear on your screen after you have finished filling out the application.

Tips & Warnings

• Check with Social Security online to find your "full retirement age" because the longer you wait to apply for Social Security, the higher your monthly benefit amount may be.
• You may be asked for a copy of your certified birth certificate, your original citizenship or naturalization papers, your United States military service papers and your W-2 forms and/or self-employment tax return.
• To prevent losing any benefits, file for Social Security benefits online even if you do not have all the required documentation.

Resources

• Social Security Online Services

[sonni57]

on 9/20/2009 Good article on applying for social security.