If you are ready to apply now, you can: Complete your application online. Call our toll-free telephone number 1-800-772-1213. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you can call us at TTY 1-800-325-0778. Call or visit your local Social Security office.
You can also apply by calling us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), Monday through Friday from a.m. to p.m local time or visiting your local Social Security Office. (Call first to make an appointment.)
Documents we may ask for include: Your Social Security card or a record of your number. Your original birth certificate, a copy certified by the issuing agency, or other proof of your age. ... If you were not born in the U.S., proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status.
Overall, people who still choose to apply in person generally feel that they can get more personalized service and better understand what is happening with their application. If you value personalized attention over the speed of processing, applying in person may be the better choice for you.
What Documents Do You Need to Apply for Retirement Benefits? (En espanol) Your Social Security card or a record of your number. Your original birth certificate, a copy certified by the issuing agency, or other proof of your age. ... If you were not born in the U.S., proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status.
If you have already reached age 62 and met all other eligibility criteria, then you may begin collecting benefits in the same month as you apply if you specify, although your first payment still would not arrive until the following month.
You can request one online by using your personal my Social Security account, which will allow you to immediately view, print, and save a copy of the letter. You can call us to request one at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), Monday through Friday from a.m. to p.m. local time.
To Whom It May Concern: I am writing to request consideration as a person in critical need for my Social Security disability. I require my claim to be processed as a dire need case because I cannot afford food, medicine, or shelter. I am attaching (list your attachments) to prove my circumstances are critical.