The Documents Needed to Apply for Social Security

Applying for your Social Security benefits is less of a daunting process than it may seem, especially since the Social Security Administration (SSA) allows you to apply online. Once you’ve determined the best age to apply for your situation, the actual application is fairly straightforward. The SSA will need a few documents and some supplementary information from you in order to begin sending you your benefits.

If you need help setting and reaching retirement goals, consider working with a financial advisor.

Documents You Need When Applying for Social Security

When it’s time to apply for your Social Security benefits, you’ll need to have the following documents in hand:

Your Social Security card
Your original birth certificate, or a certified copy
Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status
Military service papers, if applicable
Your W-2 form from the last year

If you’re unable to locate certain documents, you still shouldn’t delay applying for benefits. Your local Social Security office can help you obtain certified copies or acceptable substitutes, and in some cases, you may provide documentation later in the process. Postponing your application could result in a loss of benefits.

The Social Security Administration may accept photocopies of certain documents, such as W-2s and tax returns. However, original documents are required for others, including your birth certificate.

Other Information Your Social Security Application May Ask For

If you’re married, you’ll need to provide your spouse’s name, Social Security number, date of birth and age. You must also supply the date and place of your marriage, as well as the same information for any former spouses, if applicable. For administrative purposes, you will need to specify the month you want your benefits to begin and provide your bank’s routing and account numbers for direct deposit.

As part of the application process, you may also choose to enroll in Medicare Part B, provided you meet the eligibility requirements.

You should also note in your application if:

Do you have any unmarried children under the age of 18 or disabled children under the age of 22.
Have you ever filed for Social Security benefits, Medicare or Supplemental Security Income on your behalf
You’ve ever used a different SSN

Work Information You’ll Need When Applying for Social Security

Your work history can affect your benefits, so you’ll need to provide the Social Security Administration with certain employment details. This includes the name and address of your employer for the current year and the prior year.

You’ll also need to report how much you earned this year and last year, and in some cases, estimate your income for the following year. An income estimate is required if you apply for benefits in September, October, November or December.

Similar to the above section, you should also indicate on your application if any of these conditions apply to you:

You’ve been unable to work because of injury, illness or another condition at any point within the past 14 months.
You’ve qualified for a pension or an annuity from a federal or state government employer.
You or your spouse have ever worked for the railroad industry in any capacity
You’ve earned any Social Security credit under the Social Security system of another country

Bottom Line

Most of the documents and information you’ll need for your Social Security application should be easy enough to get your hands on. If you have trouble doing so, your best option is to visit your local Social Security office and start your application anyway. Odds are, the SSA will be able to help you track down any documents or information you don’t have. For instance, you can use Form SS-5 to order a new Social Security card.

Once you’ve gathered all the necessary info and documents, you should have no problem with your application. Then you’ll be well on your way to supplementing your retirement savings with Social Security benefits.

Tips For a Successful Retirement

Finding a financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with vetted financial advisors who serve your area, and you can have a free introductory call with your advisor matches to decide which one you feel is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.
Understanding the benefits you could qualify for is important. Try using a social security calculator to help you estimate what your benefits could be.