Social Security is a federally administrated program that provides financial support to retired people, individuals with disabilities, or their dependents. You are eligible for Social Security if you are an American citizen over the age of 18 who has worked previously in full-time employment. The documents you'll need to provide when applying for social security can include the following: Documents may be presented in either digital or paper format. Documents that show proof of your identity and proof of citizenship must be submitted for review. You must have earned a minimum amount of work credits through employment history in order to qualify for social security benefits. The minimum amount of work credits required to be eligible for social security benefits is 20. During your lifetime, you may earn up to four work credits each year and there is a limit on the number of years for which you can use the same credit. The Social Security Administration provides many different types of benefits depending on how many work credits you've earned and at what age you start receiving your benefits. A few of the benefits provided by social security include: If you feel that you may meet the requirements for Social Security benefits, it is advisable to contact your local office for more information. Social Security is a federally administrated program that provides financial support to retired people, individuals with disabilities, or their dependents. The Social Security Administration provides many different types of benefits depending on how many work credits you've earned and at what age you start receiving your benefits. So if you feel like social security could be the right option for you, it is advisable to contact your local office for more information. Documents You’ll Need to Provide When Applying for Social Security
Social Security Benefits and Eligibility Requirements
Social Security Benefits
The Bottom Line
Documents for Social Security Application FAQs
A valid form of identification such as a driver's license or passport, proof of age, and evidence of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status are all required documents for a Social Security application.
The processing time for a Social Security application can vary. However, it typically takes up to 6 weeks from the date the application is received.
Yes, you may be able to apply for Social Security benefits online if you meet certain requirements. To find out more, please visit the Social Security website at www.ssa.gov.
After your application has been approved, you will receive a Social Security card in the mail and can begin receiving benefits as soon as they are eligible for payment.
Yes, depending on your situation, you may be asked to provide additional documents such as proof of income or medical records. Your caseworker will explain what is needed and how to submit the documents.
True Tamplin is a published author, public speaker, CEO of UpDigital, and founder of Finance Strategists.
True is a Certified Educator in Personal Finance (CEPF®), author of The Handy Financial Ratios Guide, a member of the Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing, contributes to his financial education site, Finance Strategists, and has spoken to various financial communities such as the CFA Institute, as well as university students like his Alma mater, Biola University, where he received a bachelor of science in business and data analytics.
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