How do I apply for Social Security benefits?

Social Security offers several types of benefits that individuals and families may be eligible to apply for, including retirement benefits based on your own work record, spousal benefits based on a current or former spouse’s record, and widow(er)’s (survivor) benefits following the death of a spouse. Retirement and spousal benefits can generally be claimed as early as age 62, while survivor benefits may be available as early as age 60 (or earlier in certain caregiving situations). Depending on the type of benefit, applications can be completed online, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security office, with some benefits requiring direct interaction with the Social Security Administration.

Social Security Benefits — Application Methods

* Online applications for spousal benefits are generally available when filing for retirement benefits; Social Security will determine eligibility for spousal benefits as part of the application.

Social Security Administration — Application Links by Method

Online Applications

• Apply for benefits:
  https://www.ssa.gov/apply

Apply by Phone

• Social Security Administration: 1-800-772-1213

• TTY: 1-800-325-0778

Apply In Person

• Locate a local Social Security office:
  https://www.ssa.gov/locator

Additional SSA Reference Pages

• Retirement benefits:
  https://www.ssa.gov/retirement

• Spousal benefits:
  https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/applying7.html

• Survivor benefits:
  https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/survivors/