The Social Security Administration (SSA) reminds workers how to prepare for retirement. First of all, you must find out if you are eligible. Answering a few questions is all you need to do.
For example, SSA may ask you first if you are an adult or not, and your birth date. Then, they may want to know if you have paid taxes as you worked. It is also important to tell Social Security if you have a paycheck at the moment.
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Do not forget that if you have not paid taxes to SSA for at least ten years, you are not eligible for retirement benefits. What is more, they may want to know if you get other benefits like SNAP or TANF. Besides, income and marital status are also important details.
HOW TO APPLY FOR SOCIAL SECURITY ONLINE
Once you have found out you are eligible, you can simply at https://www.ssa.gov/apply. Click on “start application” and follow the instructions SSA will provide you with through the application process.
Do not worry if you need to leave the application process because you need additional information or a document. It is possible to finish an existing application since it is saved as you go through it.
If you file and the Social Security Administration needs more information, they will request it by phone or mail. Bear in mind that you will need a My Social Security account to apply online.
Some people prefer to visit a Social Security office to apply. Others may want to phone to apply. Simply call +1 800-772-1213 OR TTY +1 800-325-0778 if you are hard of hearing. So, once you want to apply for retirement benefits you should start gathering the following documents.
WHAT DOCUMENTS WILL SSA REQUEST TO FILE FOR RETIREMENT BENEFITS?
Since it is compulsory to be at least 62 to get Social Security retirement benefits, you will need a certificate to state your place of birth and birthday. If you have a child or children and your marital history are also essential.
Do not forget to gather all the dates of your wedding(s) and the date of your divorce. So, it is important to know when your marriage started and finished. Take with you your Social Security number as well.
Have with you the names of the employers you had in the last two years. The dates you worked for them are necessary too. If you would like to get a direct deposit, you must send Social Security your routing and bank account number.
If you have a child with a qualifying disability, they may also be entitled to benefits. Tax return form W-2 may come in handy too. Veterans will need their dates of service. To get the largest retirement benefit you must earn the taxable maximum for 35 years and file at the age of 70.