Use this checklist to prepare, not to postpone
SSA advises you to submit the application even if you do not yet have every requested document. Missing evidence can often be provided later.
Timing and benefit decision
- The month you want retirement benefits to begin.
- Estimates for starting at different ages between 62 and 70.
- Your full retirement age and expected work earnings.
- Any spouse, former spouse, survivor, or family benefit that may apply.
Identity and family information
- Legal name, Social Security number, date and place of birth, and citizenship status.
- Names, Social Security numbers, birth dates, and marriage details for current and former spouses.
- Information about unmarried children who may qualify under SSA rules.
- Details of any prior Social Security, Medicare, or SSI application.
Work and earnings information
- Employer names and addresses for this year and last year.
- Last year’s earnings, expected current-year earnings, and next-year estimate when requested.
- Self-employment, railroad work, foreign Social Security credits, or government pension information when applicable.
- Beginning and ending dates for active U.S. military service before 1968, if any.
Banking and Medicare
- Bank routing and account numbers for direct deposit.
- Your decision about Medicare Part B if the application asks because you are near age 65.
- Information about current employer health coverage if you plan to delay Medicare.
Documents SSA may request
- Original birth certificate or other accepted proof of age.
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful status if you were born outside the United States.
- Military service papers for qualifying service before 1968.
- Recent W-2 forms or the prior-year self-employment tax return.
After submission
- Save the confirmation and application reference information.
- Follow SSA’s instructions for originals, certified records, copies, or office review.
- Respond to requests and verify the benefit start month, payment amount, and direct deposit on the notice.
- Report later changes in work, income, address, marital status, or other circumstances SSA identifies.