The Social Security Administration (SSA) advises you to apply for retirement benefits three months before you want your benefits to begin. Even if you have no plans to receive retirement benefits, you should still sign up for Medicare three months before age 65. 

You can apply for retirement benefits online. Connect to the SSA's online application and follow the instructions.

You can also apply by calling the SSA's toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213. Representatives there can make an appointment for your application to be taken over the telephone or at any Social Security Office. (Find your local Social Security Office via the SSA Social Security Locator.) People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call the SSA's toll-free TTY number, 1-800-325-0778, between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Monday through Friday.

What Are Social Security Retirement Benefits?

The federal government provides Social Security retirement benefits, a form of financial assistance, to individuals who have reached retirement age and have paid into the Social Security system through payroll taxes during their working years. These benefits intend to provide a source of income for retirees to help them cover living expenses and maintain a certain standard of living after they have stopped working.

To qualify for Social Security retirement benefits, you must have earned a certain number of work credits. The SSA bases your work credits on your age and the total number of years you worked.

Generally, you need to have earned at least 40 work credits (the equivalent of about 10 years of work) to be eligible for retirement benefits. The amount of benefits you receive is based on your earnings history. So, higher earners receive higher benefit payouts.

In addition to retirees, certain family members of retirees may be eligible for Social Security retirement benefits. This may include spouses, ex-spouses, children, and dependent parents. Note that eligibility requirements and benefit amounts may vary depending on individual circumstances. Contact the SSA or visit their website for more information.

Documents Needed to Apply for Social Security Retirement Benefits

When you apply for benefits, you may need the following information:

• your Social Security number;

• your original birth certificate;

• a copy of your W-2 forms or self-employment tax return for last year;

• a copy of your military discharge papers if you had military service prior to 1968;

• your spouse's birth certificate and Social Security number if they are applying for benefits;

• your children's birth certificates and Social Security numbers, if applying for children's benefits;

• proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status if you (or a spouse or child is applying for benefits) were not born in the U.S.; and

• the name of your bank, your account number, and your bank routing number (if you prefer to have your benefits directly deposited into your account).

You will need to submit original documents or copies certified by the issuing office. You can mail or bring them to your local Social Security office. The SSA will make photocopies and return the documents to you.