Getting started.
Who this helps
Workers with enough Social Security credits can typically start benefits at age 62. People born in 1929 or later need 40 credits, equal to 10 years of work.
How to get started
If SSA cannot process your online application, it will send instructions for contacting the agency or scheduling an appointment.
Check your estimate.
Sign in to my Social Security at ssa.gov/myaccount to estimate benefits and compare starting ages.
Pick a start month.
You can apply up to four months before you want benefits to begin.
Apply for benefits.
Use SSA's online application at ssa.gov/apply with a my Social Security account, call 1-800-772-1213, or visit a local Social Security office. Call the office first to make an appointment.
How they can help.
SSA bases retirement benefits on a person's earnings over their working life and the age they start. Its tools can estimate benefits and compare different starting ages.
- Monthly retirement benefit payments
- Estimate benefits and compare starting ages
- Apply for retirement benefits
A few questions before you go.
Have your Social Security number, birth certificate, last year's W-2 or self-employment tax return, and bank name, routing number, and account number ready. Depending on your situation, SSA may also need proof of citizenship or lawful status, or military discharge papers if you served.
- How does my work record affect my eligibility?
- How might waiting change my monthly amount?
- What records should I have ready?
- When should I expect my first payment?