One of the misconceptions that a lot of people have about Social Security is that they will begin receiving benefits automatically once they hit retirement age. However, you need to apply for Social Security benefits in order to receive them.

Fortunately, doing so is not difficult. As long as you are eligible and have the proper information on you, then the application process shouldn’t take you long.

Where to Apply for Social Security Benefits

Applying for Social Security benefits is a lot easier than you might think. Where and how you apply for your benefits will depend on whether you are applying for retirement benefits, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplementary Security Income (SSI).

Where to Apply for Retirement Benefits

Although full retirement age is 66, you can choose to begin receiving retirement benefits at the age of 62. This means that you can apply when you are 61 years and nine months old. You may also want to apply for spouse’s retirement benefits as well. The following are the ways you can apply:

• Apply online. Applying for retirement benefits online should take no more than 30 minutes to do. You’ll need to have certain information on hand to complete the application, but you can save what you’ve filled out and return to it later.
• Apply on the phone. If you prefer to have someone walk you through the application process, then you can apply for retirement benefits on the phone by calling toll-free 1-800-772-1213. If you’re deaf or hard of hearing, you can call 1-800-325-0778.
• Visit your local office. If you prefer to have one-on-one assistance in person, then you can travel to your nearest Social Security Administration office. You can find out where your nearest office is by typing in your zip code in the Social Security Office Locator.

Where to Apply for SSDI or SSI Benefits

It’s important that you apply for disability benefits the moment you become disabled. The costs of your medical bills and the potential lost income can become a serious financial burden without SSDI or SSI benefits. There are several ways that you can apply for SSDI or SSI benefits.

• Contact Social Security Disability Advocates USA.  Our attorneys help when you need to file an application or appeal a claim. Our representatives will ensure that you have the proper information so that your claim will be filed within strict timelines and in accordance of the rules and regulations set forth by the Social Security Administration.
• Apply online. This is the easiest way to do it! You’ll be able to apply in the comfort of your own home and at your own convenience. You can apply for SSDI benefits as well as for SSI benefits online. Make sure that you meet the requirements to apply by reviewing the Adult Disability Checklist. You will then need to Complete a Disability Benefit Application and a Medical Release Form.
• Apply on the phone. The number for applying for SSDI or SSI benefits is the same as for applying for retirement benefits: 1-800-772-1213. If you’re deaf or hard of hearing, you can call 1-800-325-0778.
• Visit your local Social Security office. You can also go to your local Social Security Administration office and apply in person.

For more advice concerning Social Security benefits, be sure to schedule a free consultation with SSDA USA by calling us anytime at 602-952-3200. You can also reach us 24/7 via our LiveChat feature.

This is attorney advertising. SSDA, LLC is a group of attorneys that pursues claims for Social Security Disability benefits on behalf of its clients against the Social Security Administration. SSDA, LLC is in no way a part of the Social Security Administration. Further, the information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, a representative-client relationship.