Benefits Planner: Survivors | Planning For Your Survivors


As you plan for the future , you'll want to think about what your family would need if you should die now. Social Security can help your family if you have earned enough Social Security credits through your work.


You can earn up to four credits each year. In 2019 , for example , you earn one credit for each $1,360 of wages or self - employment income. When you have earned $5,440 , you have earned your four credits for the year.


The number of credits needed to provide benefits for your survivors depends on your age when you die. No one needs more than 40 credits 10 years of work to be eligible for any Social Security benefit. But , the younger a person is , the fewer credits they must have for family members to receive survivors benefits.


Benefits can be paid to your children and your spouse who is caring for the children even if you don't have the required number of credits. They can get benefits if you have credit for one and one - half years of work 6 credits in the three years just before your death.


For Your Widow Or Widower


There are about five million widows and widowers receiving monthly Social Security benefits based on their deceased spouse's earnings record. And , for many of those survivors, particularly aged women, those benefits are keeping them out of poverty.


Widows and widowers can receive : reduced benefits as early as age 60 or full benefits at full retirement age or older. benefits as early as age 50 if they're disabled AND their disability started before or within seven years of your death. benefits at any age , if they have not remarried , and if they take care of your child who is under age 16 or disabled and receives benefits on your record.


If applying for disability benefits on a deceased worker s record , they can speed up the application process if they complete an Adult Disability Report and have it available at the time of their appointment.


We use the same definition of disability for widows and widowers as we do for workers.


For Your Surviving Divorced Spouse


If you have a surviving divorced spouse , they could get the same benefits as your widow or widower provided that your marriage lasted 10 years or more.


Benefits paid to a surviving divorced spouse won't affect the benefit amounts your other survivors will receive based on your earnings record.


If your former spouse is caring for your child who is under age 16 or disabled and gets benefits on your record , they will not have to meet the length - of - marriage rule. The child must be your natural or legally adopted child.


For Your Children


Your unmarried children who are under 18 up to age 19 if attending elementary or secondary school full time can be eligible to receive Social Security benefits when you die.


And your child can get benefits at any age if they were disabled before age 22 and remain disabled.


Besides your natural children , your stepchildren, grandchildren, step grandchildren or adopted children may receive benefits under certain circumstances. For further information , view our publication.


For Your Parents


You must have been providing at least half of your parent s support and your parent must not be eligible to receive a retirement benefit that is higher than the benefit we could pay on your record. Generally, your parent also must not have married after your death ; however, there are some exceptions.


In addition to your natural parent , your stepparent or adoptive parent may receive benefits if they became your parent before you were age 16.


How Much Would Your Survivors Receive


How much your family could receive in benefits depends on your average lifetime earnings. The higher your earnings were , the higher their benefits would be. We calculate a basic amount as if you had reached full retirement age at the time you die.


These are examples of monthly benefit payments : Widow or widower, full retirement age or older 100 percent of your benefit amount ; Widow or widower , age 60 to full retirement age 71 to 99 percent of your basic amount ; Disabled widow or widower , age 50 through 59 71 percent ; Widow or widower , any age, caring for a child under age 16 75 percent ; A child under age 18 19 if still in elementary or secondary school or disabled 75 percent ; and Your dependent parent , age 62 or older : One surviving parent 82 percent. Two surviving parents 75 percent to each parent.


Percentages for a surviving divorced spouse would be the same as above.


There may also be a special lump - sum death payment.


Maximum Family Amount


There's a limit to the amount that family members can receive each month. The limit varies , but it is generally equal to between 150 and 180 percent of the basic benefit rate.


If the sum of the benefits payable to family members is greater than this limit , the benefits will be reduced proportionately. Any benefits paid to a surviving divorced spouse based on disability or age won't count toward this maximum amount.


Get your online or check our Benefit Calculators for an estimate of the benefits your family could receive if you died right now.


Other Things You Need To Know


There are limits on how much survivors may earn while they receive benefits.


Benefits for a widow, widower, or surviving divorced spouse may be affected by several additional factors :


If your widow, widower, or surviving divorced spouse remarries before they reach age 60 age 50 if disabled , they cannot receive benefits as a surviving spouse while they're married.


If your widow, widower, or surviving divorced spouse remarries after they reach age 60 age 50 if disabled , they will continue to qualify for benefits on your Social Security record.


However , if their current spouse is a Social Security beneficiary , they may want to apply for spouse's benefits on their record. If that amount is more than the widow's or widower's benefit on your record , they will receive a combination of benefits that equals the higher amount.


If your widow, widower, or surviving divorced spouse receives benefits on your record , they can switch to their own retirement benefit as early as age 62. This assumes they're eligible for retirement benefits and their retirement rate is higher than their rate as a widow, widower, or surviving divorced spouse.


In many cases , a widow or widower can begin receiving one benefit at a reduced rate and then, at full retirement age, switch to the other benefit at an unreduced rate.


If your widow, widower, or surviving divorced spouse will also receive a pension based on work not covered by Social Security, such as government or foreign work , their Social Security benefits as a survivor may be affected.


Benefits Planner: Disability | How You Apply


You should apply for disability benefits as soon as you become disabled. If you are ready to apply now , you can : Complete your application online. Call our toll - free telephone number If you are deaf or hard of hearing , you can call us at TTY Call or visit your local Social Security office.


If you wish to help another person apply for disability benefits , please read.


Information You Need To Apply


Here is the kind of information you should have :


Information About You


Your Social Security number and proof of your age ; Names, addresses, and phone numbers of doctors, caseworkers, hospitals, and clinics that took care of you and the dates of your visits ; Names and dosages of all the medications you are taking ; Medical records from your doctors, therapists, hospitals, clinics, and caseworkers, that you already have in your possession ; Laboratory and test results ; A summary of where you worked and the kind of work you did ; and Your most recent W-2 form or , if you were self - employed , a copy of your federal tax return.


Information About Family Members


Social Security numbers and proof of age for each family member who may qualify for benefits ; and Proof of marriage , if your spouse is applying for benefits , as well as dates of prior marriages , if applicable.


If you don't have all the documents you need , don't delay filing for benefits. We will help you get the information you need.


More Help For Filing Your Claim


Our Disability Starter Kit will help you get ready for your disability interview or online application. Starter kits are available in English or Spanish for adults and children under age 18.


The online Application for Benefits also includes links to information that will help you complete the form.


If Your Application Is Denied


After we review your application and the information you provided , we may decide you do not meet the qualifications for disability benefits.


If you disagree with our decision , you have the right to ask us to look at your application again. The notice you receive from us that says you don't qualify will explain how to appeal our decision and the time period in which you must make the request.


If we decide you don't qualify :


Because you are not disabled under our rules , you can appeal our decision online.


The online disability report will ask you for updated information about your medical condition and any treatment, tests, or doctor visits since we made our decision.


Appeal Medical Decision


For non - medical reasons , you can appeal our decision online.


Appeal Other Decision


You also may call our toll - free number at to request an appeal. People who are deaf or hard of hearing can call our toll - free TTY number , 1 - 800 - 325 - 0778.


People who don't have enough work credits to be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits may possibly qualify for Supplemental Security Income SSI if they have limited income and resources.


For more information , please read " Your income and resources " on page 5 of our Supplemental Security Income SSI booklet.


Publications


Apply Online For Disability Benefits Disability Benefits Disability Starter Kit Adult Disability Checklist The Appeals Process Other Disability Publications


Corrected Card for a Foreign Born U.S. Citizen Adult


If you legally change your name because of marriage, divorce, court order, or any other reason , you need to tell Social Security so that you can get a corrected card. If you are working , you also need to tell your employer. If you do not tell us when your name changes , it may : Prevent your wages from being posted correctly to your Social Security record, which may lower the amount of your future Social Security benefits. Cause delays when you file your taxes.


Important


You must present original documents or copies certified by the agency that issued them. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies. All documents must be current not expired. We cannot accept a receipt showing you applied for the document.


We may use one document for two purposes. For example , we may use your U.S. passport as proof of both citizenship and identity.


What original documents do I need?


Citizenship


If you have not already established your U.S. citizenship with us , we need to see proof of U.S. citizenship. We can accept only certain documents as proof of U.S. citizenship. These include : U.S. passport ; Certificate of Naturalization N-550/N-570 ; Certificate of Citizenship N-560/N-561 ; Certificate of Report of Birth DS-1350 ; Consular Report of Birth Abroad FS-240, CRBA.


We require this documentation only if you haveNOT already established U.S. citizenship with us.


Name Change


If you need to change your name on your Social Security card , you must show us proof of your legal name change. Documents Social Security may accept to prove a legal name change include : Marriage document ; Divorce decree ; Certificate of Naturalization showing the new name ; or Court order approving the name change.


If the document you provide as evidence of a legal name change does not give us enough information to identify you in our records or if you changed your name more than two years ago four years ago if you are under 18 years of age , you must show us an identity document in your prior name as shown in our records. We will accept an identity document in your old name that has expired.


If you do not have an identity document in your prior name , we may accept an unexpired identity document in your new name as long as we can properly establish your identity in our records.


Identity


We can accept only certain documents as proof of identity. For example , as proof of identity Social Security must see : U.S. driver's license ; State - issued non - driver identification card ; or U.S. passport.


If you do not have one of these specific documents or you cannot get a replacement for one of them within 10 days , we will ask to see other documents. Any documents submitted, including the following, must be current not expired and show your name, identifying information date of birth or age and preferably a recent photograph : Employee identification card ; School identification card ; Health insurance card not a Medicare card ; or U.S. military identification card.


Note


Your new card will have the same number as your previous card, but will show your new name. We will mail your card as soon as we have all of your information and have verified your documents.


Corrected Card for a Noncitizen Adult


If you change your name, become a U.S. citizen , or your immigration status or work authorization has changed , you need to tell Social Security so we can update our records and when necessary, issue a new card.


When you request a replacement or a corrected Social Security card , you must show us proof of your identity, immigration status and work authorization. In addition , if you need to change or correct any information on your Social Security card , you need to show us certain documents about the change. We can only accept certain documents.


What documents do I need to prove my identity?


Social Security will ask to see your current U.S. immigration documents. Acceptable documents include : I-551 Permanent Resident Card I-94 Arrival / Departure Record with unexpired foreign passport, or admission stamp in the unexpired foreign passport ; or I-766 Employment Authorization Document , EAD, work permit from DHS.


What other documents do I need?


If you legally change your name because of marriage, divorce, court order, or any other reason , you should tell Social Security.


If you are working , you also need to tell your employer. If you do not tell us when your name changes , it may : Prevent your wages from being posted correctly to your Social Security record, which may lower the amount of your future Social Security benefits. Cause delays when you file your taxes.


You must show us proof of your legal name change. Documents Social Security may accept to prove a legal name change include : Marriage document ; Divorce decree ; Court order approving the name change ; or


If you do not have an identity document in your prior name , we may accept an unexpired identity document in your new name, as long as we can properly establish your identity in our records.


If we assigned you a Social Security number for non - work purposes , special rules apply. If DHS did not authorize you to work , we will change your name on our records but we cannot issue you a corrected card. If you do not have permission to work, but need a Social Security card for other reasons , see " If you do not have permission to work " for further information. Remember that you cannot use a Social Security number assigned for non - work purposes to work. If you use it to work , we will inform DHS.


If we issue you a new card , it will have the same number as your previous card , but will show your new name. We will mail your card as soon as we have all of your information and have verified your immigration documents.


Immigration Status


To prove your U.S. immigration status , you must show us your current U.S. immigration document, such as : Form I-551 Lawful Permanent Resident Card, Machine Readable Immigrant Visa ; I-766 Employment Authorization Document, EAD, work permit ; or I-94 Arrival / Departure Record or admission stamp in the unexpired foreign passport. If you are an F-1 or M-1 student , you also must show us your I-20 Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.


If you are a J-1 or J-2 exchange visitor , you must show us your DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status.


Work Eligibility


In general , only noncitizens who have DHS' permission to work can apply for a Social Security number. If you are a foreign worker , we only need to see your I-94 Arrival / Departure Record or admission stamp in your unexpired foreign passport showing a class of admission permitting work. You may need to show your I-766 Employment Authorization Document, EAD, work permit from DHS.


If you are lawfully present in the United States and plan to apply for work authorization , you can apply for both work authorization from the Department of Homeland Security DHS, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services USCIS and request a Social Security card from the Social Security Administration at the same time. For more information on this process , read Apply For Your Social Security Number While Applying For Your Work Permit.


If you submit evidence of lawful work - authorized status along with evidence of your name change , we can issue you a corrected card with your new name.


Student:


If you are an F-1 student and eligible to work on campus , you must provide a letter from your designated school official that : Identifies you ; Confirms your current school status ; and Identifies your employer and the type of work you are, or will be, doing.


We also need to see evidence of that employment, such as a recent pay slip or a letter from your employer. Your supervisor must sign and date the letter. The letter must describe : Your job; Your employment start date ; The number of hours you are, or will be, working ; and Your supervisor's name and telephone number.


If you are an F-1 student authorized to work in curricular practical training , you must provide us your Form I-20 with the employment page completed and signed by your designated school official.


If you are an F-1 student and have a work permit I-766 from DHS , you must present it.


If you are a J-1 student, student intern or international visitor , you must provide a letter from your sponsor. The letter should be on sponsor letterhead with an original signature that authorizes your employment.


If you do not have permission to work : Lawfully admitted noncitizens can get many benefits and services without a Social Security number. You do not need a number to conduct business with a bank, register for school, apply for educational tests, obtain private health insurance, apply for school lunch programs or apply for subsidized housing. You cannot get a Social Security number for the sole purpose of obtaining a driver's license.


We require citizenship documentation only if you are a U.S. citizen and you have NOT already established U.S. citizenship with us.


Corrected Card for a U.S. Born Adult


If you legally change your name because of marriage, divorce, court order or any other reason , you need to tell Social Security so that you can get a corrected card. If you are working , also tell your employer. If you do not tell us when your name changes , it may : Prevent your wages from being posted correctly to your Social Security record, which may lower the amount of your future Social Security benefits. Cause delays when you file your taxes.


We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies. We cannot accept a receipt showing you applied for the document. All documents must be current not expired.


If you have not already established your U.S. citizenship with us , we need to see proof of U.S. citizenship. We can accept only certain documents as proof of U.S. citizenship. These include a U.S. birth certificate or U.S. passport.


This documentation is only required if you haveNOT already established citizenship with us.


We can accept only certain documents as proof of identity. An acceptable document must be current not expired and show your name, identifying information date of birth or age and preferably a recent photograph. For example , as proof of identity Social Security must see your : U.S. driver's license ; State - issued non - driver identification card ; or U.S. passport.


Corrected Card for a Foreign Born U.S. Citizen Child


If you legally change your child's name because of adoption, court order or any other reason , you need to tell Social Security so that your child can get a corrected card. If your child is working , also tell your child's employer. If you do not tell us when your child's name changes , it may : Delay your tax refund or your child's refund ; and Prevent your child's wages from being posted correctly to your child's Social Security record, which may lower the amount of your child's future Social Security benefits.


If you have not previously established your child's U.S. citizenship with us , we need to see proof of U.S. citizenship. We can accept only certain documents as proof of U.S. citizenship. These include : Certification of Report of Birth DS-1350 ; Consular Report of Birth Abroad FS-240 ; U.S. passport ; Certificate of Naturalization N-550/N-570 ; or Certificate of Citizenship N-560/N-561.


If you need to change the name on your child's Social Security card , you must show us proof of your child's legal name change. Documents Social Security may accept to prove your child's legal name change include : Final adoption decree with the new name ; Certificate of Naturalization showing the new name ; or Court order approving the name change.


If the document you provide as evidence of your child's legal name change does not give us enough information to identify your child in our records or if you changed your child's name more than four years ago , you must show us an identity document in your child's prior name as shown in our records. We will accept an identity document in your child's old name that has expired.


If you do not have an identity document in your child's prior name , we may accept an unexpired identity document in your child's new name as long as we can properly establish your child's identity in our records.


Your child : We can accept only certain documents as proof of your child's identity. An acceptable document must show your child's name, identifying information i.e., age, date of birth, or parents' names and preferably a recent photograph. We generally can accept a non - photo identity document if it has enough information to identify the child such as the child's name and age, date of birth or parents' names. We prefer to see the child's U.S. passport. If that document is not available , we may accept the child's : State - issued non - driver's identification card ; Adoption decree ; Doctor, clinic or hospital record ; Religious record ; School daycare center record ; or School identification card.


You : We also must see proof of your identity. An acceptable document must be current not expired and show your name, identifying information date of birth or age and preferably a recent photograph. For example , as proof of identity Social Security must see your : U.S. driver's license ; State - issued non - driver identification card ; or U.S. passport.


Your child's new card will have the same number as your child's previous card, but will show a new name. We will mail your child's card as soon as we have all of your child's information and have verified your child's documents.


Corrected Card for a Noncitizen Child


If you legally change your child's name because of adoption, court order or any other reason , you need to tell Social Security. If your child is working , also tell your child's employer. If you do not tell us when your child's name changes , it may : Delay your tax refund or your child's refund ; and Prevent your child's wages from being posted correctly to your child's Social Security record, which may lower the amount of your child's future Social Security benefits.


To prove your child's U.S. immigration status , you must show us your child's current U.S. immigration document, such as : Form I-551 Lawful Permanent Resident Card, Machine Readable Immigrant Visa ; I-766 Employment Authorization Document, EAD, work permit ; or I-94 Arrival / Departure Record or admission stamp in the unexpired foreign passport.


If your child is an F-1 or M-1 student , we must see your child's I-20 Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.


If your child is a J-1 or J-2 exchange visitor , you must see your child's DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status.


In general , only noncitizens who have permission to work from DHS can apply for a Social Security number. If you are a foreign worker , we only need to see an I-94 Arrival / Departure Record or admission stamp in the unexpired foreign passport, showing a class of admission permitting work. Some foreign workers must show their I-766 Employment Authorization Document, EAD, work permit from DHS.


If you submit evidence of lawful work - authorized status for your child along with evidence of name change , we can issue your child a corrected card with his or her new name.


However , if we assigned your child a Social Security number for non - work purposes , special rules apply. If your child is not authorized to work by DHS, we will change your child's name on our records , but we cannot issue a corrected card. Your child cannot use a Social Security number assigned for non - work purposes to work. If your child does use it to work , we will inform DHS.


Student : If you are an F-1 student and eligible to work on campus , you must provide a letter from your designated school official that : Identifies you ; Confirms your current school status ; and Identifies your employer and the type of work you are, or will be, doing.


If you are an F-1 student authorized to work in curricular practical training CPT , you must provide us your Form I-20 with the employment page completed and signed by your designated school official.


If you need to change the name on your child's Social Security record , you must show us proof of your child's legal name change. Documents Social Security may accept to prove your child's legal name change include : Final adoption decree with the new name ; Court order approving the name change.


If you do not have an identity document in your child's prior name , we may accept an unexpired identity document in your child's new name, as long as we can properly establish your child's identity in our records.


Your child : Social Security will ask to see your child's current U.S. immigration document from DHS. Acceptable immigration documents include your child's : I-551 Permanent Resident Card ; I-94 Arrival / Departure Record with unexpired foreign passport or admission stamp in the unexpired foreign passport ; or I-766 Employment Authorization Document , EAD, work permit from DHS.


If you do not have one of these specific documents or you cannot get a replacement for one of them within 10 days , we will ask to see other documents. Any documents submitted, including the following, must be current not expired and show your name, identifying information date of birth or age and preferably a recent photograph : Employee identification card ; School identification card ; Health insurance card not a Medicare card ; U.S. military identification card ; or Doctor , clinic or hospital record.


If you are not a U.S. citizen , Social Security will ask to see your current U.S. immigration document from DHS. Acceptable immigration documents include your : Form I-551 includes machine - readable immigrant visa with unexpired foreign passport ; I-94 or admission stamp in the unexpired foreign passport ; or I-766 Employment Authorization Document , EAD, work permit from DHS.


If we issue your child a new card , it will have the same number as your child's previous card, but will show a new name. We will mail your child's card as soon as we have all of your child's information and have verified your child's immigration documents.


Corrected Card for a U.S. Born Child


If you legally change your child's name because of adoption, court order or any other reason , you need to tell Social Security so that you can get a corrected card. If your child is working , also tell your child's employer. If you do not tell us when your child's name changes , it may : Delay your tax refund or your child's refund ; and Prevent your child's wages from being posted correctly to your child's Social Security record, which may lower the amount of your child's future Social Security benefits.


If you have not already established your child's U.S. citizenship with us , we need to see proof of U.S. citizenship. We can accept only certain documents as proof of U.S. citizenship. These include a U.S. birth certificate or U.S. passport.


This documentation is only required if your child hasNOT already established citizenship with us.


If you need to change the name on your child's Social Security card , you must show us proof of your child's legal name change. Documents Social Security may accept to prove your child's legal name change include : Final adoption decree with the new name ; Court order approving the name change ; or Amended birth certificate with the new name.


Original Card for a Foreign Born U.S. Citizen Adult


We can accept only certain documents as proof of U.S. citizenship. These include : U.S. passport ; Certificate of Naturalization N-550/N-570 ; Certificate of Citizenship N-560/N-561 ; Certificate of Report of Birth DS-1350 ; Consular Report of Birth Abroad FS-240, CRBA.


Age


You must present your foreign birth certificate if you have it or can get it within 10 days. If not , we will consider other documents such as your passport or a document issued by the Department of Homeland Security DHS as evidence of your age.


Anyone age 12 or older requesting an original Social Security number must appear in person for an interview. We will ask for evidence to show you do not have a Social Security number. Here are examples of documents you can use to prove a Social Security number was never assigned : If you lived outside the United States for an extended period , a current or previous passport , school and/or employment records , and any other record that would show long - term residence outside the United States could be used to show you do not have a Social Security number. If you have lived in the United States and you are applying for an original Social Security number , we may ask you for information about the schools you attended or we may ask you to provide copies of tax records that would show you were never assigned a Social Security number.


We may use one document for two purposes. For example , we may use your U.S. passport as proof of both citizenship and identity. However , you must provide at least two separate documents.


Original Card for a Noncitizen Adult


In general , only noncitizens who have permission to work from the Department of Homeland Security DHS can apply for a Social Security number. If you do not have permission to work but need a Social Security number for other purposes , see " If you do not have permission to work " for further information.


To prove your U.S. immigration status , you must show us your current U.S. immigration document, such as : Form I-551 Lawful Permanent Resident Card, Machine Readable Immigrant Visa with your unexpired foreign passport ; I-766 Employment Authorization Document, EAD, work permit ; or I-94 Arrival / Departure Record or admission stamp in the unexpired foreign passport.


If you are an F-1 or M-1 student , you also must show us your I-20 Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.


In general , only noncitizens who have permission to work from DHS can apply for a Social Security number. If you are a foreign worker , we only need to see your I-94 Arrival / Departure Record or admission stamp in the unexpired foreign passport showing a class of admission permitting work. Some foreign workers must show their I-766 Employment Authorization Document, EAD, work permit from DHS.


Government benefits or services : If you do not have permission to work , you may apply for a Social Security number only if : A federal law requires you to provide your Social Security number to get a particular benefit or service ; or A state or local law requires you to provide your Social Security number to get general assistance benefits for which you already have qualified.


If you need a number to meet these state or local requirements , you must bring us a letter from the government agency. It must be on letterhead stationery no form letters or photocopies and : Specifically identify you as the applicant ; Cite the law requiring you to have a Social Security number ; Indicate that you meet all the agency's requirements, except having the number; and Contain an agency contact name and telephone number.


Taxes: If you need a number for tax purposes and you are not authorized to work in the United States , you can apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number from the Internal Revenue Service IRS. Visit IRS in person or call the IRS toll - free number , 1 - 800-TAXFORM 1 - 800 - 829 - 3676, and request Form W-7 Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.


If you are assigned a number for non - work purposes , you cannot use it to work. If you use it to work , we will inform DHS.


You must present your foreign birth certificate if you have it or can get it within 10 days. If not , we will consider other documents such as your passport or a document issued by DHS as evidence of your age.


Anyone age 12 or older requesting an original Social Security numberMUST be interviewed by Social Security. We will ask for evidence to show you do not have a Social Security number. If you lived outside the United States for an extended period , a current or previous passport , school and/or employment records , and any other record that would show long - term residence outside the United States could be used to show you do not have a Social Security number.


Social Security will ask to see a current DHS document. Acceptable documents include : I-551 Permanent Resident Card ; I-94 Arrival / Departure Record with unexpired foreign passport or admission stamp in the unexpired foreign passport ; or I-766 Employment Authorization Document , EAD, work permit from DHS.


We may use one document for two purposes. For example , we may use a DHS work permit as proof of both immigration status and identity. However , you must provide at least two separate documents.


Original Card for a U.S. Born Adult


We can accept only certain documents as proof of U.S. citizenship. These include a U.S. birth certificate or a U.S. passport.


You must present your birth certificate. If one exists , you must submit it. If a birth certificate does not exist , we may be able to accept your : Religious record made before the age of 5 showing your date of birth ; U.S. hospital record of your birth ; or U.S. passport.


Original Card for a Foreign Born U.S. Citizen Adopted Child


Information


Adoption


In some cases , we can assign your adopted child a number before the adoption is complete , but you may want to wait. Then , you can apply for the number using your child's new name. If you want to claim your child for tax purposes while the adoption is still pending , contact the Internal Revenue Service for Form W-7A, Application for Taxpayer Identification Number for Pending U.S. Adoptions. For more information, see Social Security Numbers For Children (Publication No. 05-10023).


We can accept only certain documents as proof of U.S. citizenship. These include a U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization N-550/N-570 or Certificate of Citizenship N-560/N-561. Foreign - born adopted children residing permanently in the United States may automatically acquire U.S. citizenship when they meet certain requirements. We may accept the following as evidence of U.S. citizenship : Certificate of Citizenship N-560/N-561 ; Certificate of Naturalization N-550/N-570 ; Machine Readable Immigrant Visa MRIV showing a category code of IR3 or IH3 ; or U.S. passport.


You must present your child's foreign birth certificate if you have it or can get it within 10 days. If not , we will consider other documents such as your child's passport or a document issued by the Department of Homeland Security DHS as evidence of your child's age.


Anyone age 12 or older requesting an original Social Security number must appear in person for an interview. We will ask for evidence to show that your child does not have a Social Security number. Here are examples of documents you can use to prove a Social Security number was never assigned : If your child lived outside the United States for an extended period , a current or previous passport , school and/or employment records , and any other record that would show long - term residence outside the United States could be used to show that your child does not have a Social Security number. If your child has lived in the United States and is applying for an original Social Security number , we may ask you for information about the schools your child attended or we may ask you to provide copies of tax records that would show that your child was never assigned a Social Security number.


Original Card for a Foreign Born U.S. Citizen Child


We can accept only certain documents as proof of U.S. citizenship. These include : Certification of Report of Birth DS-1350 ; Consular Report of Birth Abroad FS-240 ; U.S. passport ; Certificate of Citizenship N-560/N-561 ; Certificate of Naturalization N-550/N-570.


You must present your child's foreign birth certificate if you have it or can get it within 10 days. If not , we will consider other documents such as your child's passport or a document issued by DHS as evidence of your child's age.


Anyone age 12 or older requesting an original Social Security number must appear in person for an interview. We will ask for evidence so we can check our records that we have not already issued a Social Security card to your child. Here are examples of documents that we may need to see : If your child lived outside the United States for an extended period , a current or previous passport , school and/or employment records , and any other record that would show long - term residence outside the United States. If your child has lived in the United States


information about the schools your child attended , and copies of tax records.


Original Card for a Noncitizen Child


In general , only noncitizens who have permission to work from the Department of Homeland Security DHS can apply for a Social Security number. If your child does not have permission to work but needs a Social Security number for other purposes , see " If your child does not have permission to work " for further information.


To prove your child's U.S. immigration status , you must show us your child's current U.S. immigration document, such as : I-551 Lawful Permanent Resident Card, Machine Readable Immigrant Visa ; I-766 Employment Authorization Document, EAD, work permit ; or I-94 Arrival / Departure Record or admission stamp in the unexpired foreign passport.


In general , only noncitizens who have permission to work from DHS can apply for a Social Security number. For most foreign workers , we only need to see an I-94 Arrival / Departure Record or admission stamp in the unexpired foreign passport showing a class of admission permitting work. Some foreign workers must show their I-766 Employment Authorization Document, EAD, work permit from DHS.


If your child does not have permission to work : Lawfully admitted noncitizens can get many benefits and services without a Social Security number. You do not need a number to conduct business with a bank, register for school, apply for educational tests, obtain private health insurance, apply for school lunch programs or apply for subsidized housing. You cannot get a Social Security number for the sole purpose of obtaining a driver's license.


Government benefits or services : If your child does not have permission to work , the child may apply for a Social Security number only if : A federal law requires your child to provide a Social Security number to get a particular benefit or service ; or A state or local law requires you to provide your Social Security number to get general assistance benefits for which you already have qualified.


If your child needs a number to meet these state or local requirements , you must bring us a letter from the government agency. It must be on letterhead stationery no form letters or photocopies and : Specifically identify your child as the applicant ; Cite the law requiring your child to have a Social Security number ; Indicate that your child meets all the agency's requirements, except having the number ; and Contain an agency contact name and telephone number.


Taxes: If you need a number for your child for tax purposes and your child is not authorized to work in the United States , you can apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number for your child from the Internal Revenue Service IRS. Visit IRS in person or call the IRS toll - free number , 1 - 800-TAXFORM 1 - 800 - 829 - 3676, and request Form W-7A Application for Taxpayer Identification Number for Pending U.S. Adoptions.


Anyone age 12 or older requesting an original Social Security number must appear in person for an interview. We will ask for evidence to show that your child does not have a Social Security number. If your child lived outside the United States for an extended period , a current or previous passport , school and/or employment records , and any other record that would show long - term residence outside the United States could be used to show that your child does not have a Social Security number.


Your child : Social Security will ask to see your child's current DHS document. Acceptable documents include : I-551 Permanent Resident Card ; I-94 Arrival / Departure Record with unexpired foreign passport ; or I-766 Employment Authorization Document , EAD, work permit from DHS.


If your child does not have a current DHS document , we can accept only certain documents as proof of your child's identity. An acceptable document must show your child's name, identifying information i.e., age, date of birth, or parents' names and preferably a recent photograph. We generally can accept a non - photo identity document if it has enough information to identify the child such as the child's name and age, date of birth or parents' names. We prefer to see the child's U.S. passport. If that document is not available , we may accept the child's : Adoption decree ; Doctor, clinic or hospital record ; Religious record ; School daycare center record ; or School identification card.


You : We also must see proof of your identity. An acceptable document must show your child's name, identifying information i.e., age, date of birth, or parents' names and preferably a recent photograph. For example , as proof of identity Social Security must see your : U.S. driver's license ; State - issued non - driver identification card ; or U.S. passport.


If you are not a U.S. citizen , Social Security will ask to see a current DHS document. Acceptable documents include : I-551 Permanent Resident Card ; I-94 Arrival / Departure Record with unexpired foreign passport ; or I-766 Employment Authorization Document , EAD, work permit from DHS.


Original Card for a U.S. Born Child


Social Security must verify a birth record for all U.S .- born applicants who apply for an original Social Security number. An exception is made for a parent who applies for a baby's Social Security number at the hospital when the baby is born. To verify a birth record , Social Security will contact the office that issued it.


All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. We also cannot accept a receipt showing you applied for the document.


Get a certified copy of a document showing a birth, marriage or divorce that took place in the U.S.


We can accept only certain documents as proof of U.S. citizenship. These include a U.S. birth certificate or U.S. passport.


If your child has or can obtain a U.S .- State - Issued birth certificate that recorded his or her birth before age 5 , you must submit it. If not , we can consider other documents, such as your child's passport, to prove his or her age.


Your child : While you can use a birth certificate to prove age or citizenship , you cannot use it as proof of identity. Social Security needs evidence that shows the child continues to exist beyond the date of birth.


We can accept only certain documents as proof of your child's identity. An acceptable document must show your child's name, identifying information i.e., age, date of birth, or parents' names and preferably a recent photograph. We generally can accept a non - photo identity document if it has enough information to identify the child such as the child's name and age, date of birth or parents' names. We prefer to see the child's U.S. passport. If that document is not available , we may accept the child's : State - issued non - driver's identification card ; Adoption decree ; Doctor, clinic or hospital record ; Religious record ; School daycare center record ; or School identification card.


Replacement Card for a Foreign Born U. S. Citizen Adult


You can replace your Social Security card for free if it is lost or stolen. However , you may not need to get a replacement card. Knowing your Social Security number is what's important. You are limited to three 3 replacement cards in a year and 10 during your lifetime. Legal name changes do not count toward these limits. Also , you may not be affected by these limits if you can prove you need the card to prevent a significant hardship.


You may be able to request your replacement Social Security card online. Our online service is a fast and secure way to get a replacement. If you are age 18 or older with a U.S. mailing address and have amySocial Securityaccount , you can apply for a replacement card online. For more information about creating my Social Security account and getting a replacement card online , visit our Social Security Number and Card website.


Replacement Card for a Noncitizen Adult


You can replace your Social Security card for free if it is lost or stolen. However , you may not need to get a replacement card, knowing your Social Security number is what's important. You are limited to three 3 replacement cards in a year and 10 during your lifetime. Legal name changes and other exceptions do not count toward these limits. Also , you may not be affected by these limits if you can prove you need the card to prevent a significant hardship.


To prove your U.S. immigration status , you must show us your current U.S. immigration document, such as : Form I-551 Lawful Permanent Resident Card, Machine Readable Immigrant Visa ; I-766 Employment Authorization Document, EAD, work permit ; or I-94 Arrival / Departure Record or admission stamp in the unexpired foreign passport.


In general , only noncitizens who have permission to work from DHS can apply for a Social Security number. If you are a foreign worker , we only need to see an I-94 Arrival / Departure Record or admission stamp in the unexpired foreign passport showing a class of admission permitting work. Some foreign workers must show their I-766 Employment Authorization Document, EAD, work permit from DHS.


We may use one document for two purposes. For example , we may use a DHS work permit as proof of both immigration status and identity.


Replacement Card for a U.S. Born Adult


You can replace your Social Security card for free if it is lost or stolen. However , you may not need to get a replacement card. Knowing your Social Security number is what is important. You are limited to three replacement cards in a year and 10 during your lifetime. Legal name changes and other exceptions do not count toward these limits. For example , changes in immigration status that require card updates may not count toward these limits. Also , you may not be affected by these limits if you can prove you need the card to prevent a significant hardship.


Replacement Card for a Foreign Born U.S. Child


You can replace your child's Social Security card for free if it is lost or stolen. However you may not need to get a replacement card , knowing your child s Social Security number is what's important. You are limited to three 3 replacement cards in a year and 10 during a lifetime. Legal name changes do not count toward these limits. Also , you may not be affected by these limits if you can prove you need the card to prevent a significant hardship.


If you have not previously reported the child's U.S. citizenship to us , we need to see proof of U.S. citizenship. We can accept only certain documents as proof of U.S. citizenship. These include : Certification of Report of Birth DS-1350 ; Consular Report of Birth Abroad FS-240, CRBA ; U.S. passport or Certificate of Citizenship N-560/N-561.


Your child : We can accept only certain documents as proof of your child's identity. An acceptable document must show your child's name, identifying information i.e., age, date of birth, or parents' names, and preferably a recent photograph. We generally can accept a non - photo identity document if it has enough information to identify the child such as the child's name and age, date of birth, or parents' names. We prefer to see the child's U.S. passport. If that document is not available , we may accept the child's : State issued non - driver's identification card ; Adoption decree ; Doctor, clinic or hospital record ; Religious record ; School daycare center record ; or School identification card.


Replacement Card for a Noncitizen Child


You can replace your child's Social Security card for free if it is lost or stolen. You are limited to three replacement cards in a year and 10 during a lifetime. Legal name changes and other exceptions do not count toward these limits. For example , changes in immigration status that require card updates may not count toward these limits. Also , you may not be affected by these limits if you can prove you need the card to prevent a significant hardship.


In general , only noncitizens who have permission to work from DHS can apply for a Social Security number. For children with work - authorization , we only need to see an I-94 Arrival / Departure Record or admission stamp in the unexpired foreign passport showing a class of admission permitting work. Some children must show their I-766 Employment Authorization Document, EAD, work permit from DHS.


If your child does not have a current DHS document , we can accept only certain documents as proof of your child's identity. An acceptable document must show your child's name, identifying information i.e., age, date of birth, or parents' names and preferably a recent photograph. We generally can accept a non - photo identity document if it has enough information to identify the child such as the child's name and age, date of birth or parents' names. If that document is not available , we may accept the child's : State - issued non - driver's identification card ; Adoption decree ; Doctor, clinic or hospital record ; Religious record ; School daycare center record ; or School identification card.


If you are not a U.S. citizen , Social Security will ask to see a current DHS document. Acceptable documents include : I-551 Permanent Resident Card ; I-94 Arrival / Departure Record with unexpired foreign passport ; I-766 Employment Authorization Document , EAD, work permit from DHS.


Replacement Card for a U.S. Born Child


If you have not already established the child's U.S. citizenship with us , we need to see proof of U.S. citizenship. We can accept only certain documents as proof of U.S. citizenship. These include a U.S. birth certificate or U.S. passport.


Your child : While you can use a birth certificate to prove age or citizenship , you cannot use it as proof of identity. Social Security needs evidence that shows the child continues to exist beyond the date of birth. We can accept only certain documents as proof of your child's identity. An acceptable document must show your child's name, identifying information i.e., age, date of birth, or parents' names and preferably a recent photograph. We generally can accept a non - photo identity document if it has enough information to identify the child such as the child's name and age, date of birth or parents' names. We prefer to see the child's U.S. passport. If that document is not available , we may accept the child's : State Issued non - drivers identification card ; Adoption decree ; Doctor, clinic or hospital record ; Religious record ; School daycare center record ; or School identification card.


If you are not a U.S. citizen , Social Security will ask to see a current DHS document. Acceptable documents include : I-551 Permanent Resident Card ; I-94 Arrival / Departure Record with unexpired foreign passport or admission stamp in the unexpired foreign passport ; or I-766 Employment Authorization Document , EAD, work permit from DHS.


Benefits Planner: Retirement


Online Calculator (WEP Version)


The calculator shown below allows you to estimate your Social Security benefit. However , for the most accurate estimates , use the Detailed Calculator.


You need to enter all your past earnings, which are shown on your online.


Please Note: The Online Calculator is updated periodically * with new benefit increases and other benefit amounts. Therefore , it is likely that your benefit estimates in the future will differ from those calculated today. The Online Calculator works on PCs and Macs with Javascript enabled. Some browsers may not allow you to print the table below.


Note: If your birthday is on January 1st , we figure your benefit as if your birthday was in the previous year.


If you qualify for benefits as a Survivor , your full retirement age for survivors benefits may be different.


Disability Benefits


Learn about Disability Benefits


Social Security pays disability benefits to people who can't work because they have a medical condition that's expected to last at least one year or result in death. Find out if you qualify and how Social Security can help you.


USE OUR DISABILITY PLANNER


Already Receiving Benefits


If you receive Social Security disability benefits , you can get information and services for managing your benefits online.


MANAGE YOUR BENEFITS


If you prefer to complete your application in a language other than English , the online application will give you the option to schedule an appointment to apply for benefits in your preferred language. The online application is currently only available in English.


Apply for DisabilityReturn to a Saved ApplicationCheck Application or Appeal Status


Who can apply for adult disability benefits online?


You can use the online application to apply for disability benefits if you : Are age 18 or older ; Are not currently receiving benefits on your own Social Security record ; Are unable to work because of a medical condition that is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death ; and Have not been denied disability benefits in the last 60 days. If your application was recently denied , our Internet Appeal application is a starting point to request a review of the determination we made.


You can now also file for Supplemental Security Income SSI online but only if you meet certain requirements. You are eligible to file online for SSI if you : Are between the ages of 18 and 65 ; Have never been married ; Aren t blind ; Are a U.S. citizen residing in one of the fifty states, District of Columbia, or the Northern Mariana Islands ; Haven t applied for or received SSI benefits in the past ; and Are applying for Social Security Disability Insurance at the same time as your SSI claim. Find out if you are eligible to receive Social Security Disability Benefits.


Once you finish the online process , a Social Security representative will contact you by telephone or by mail for any additional information needed for the applications.


You can also schedule an appointment with a local Social Security office to file an application. Call 1 - 800 - 772 - 1213 TTY 1 - 800 - 325 - 0778 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. , Monday through Friday or contact your local Social Security office.


How do I apply for benefits?


Here is what you need to do to apply for benefits online : Print and review the Adult Disability ChecklistIt will help you gather the information you need to complete the application. Complete the Disability Benefit Application.


What information do I need to apply for benefits?


We suggest that you have the following information at hand. It will make completing the application much easier.


Your date and place of birth and Social Security number The name , Social Security number and date of birth or age of your current spouse and any former spouse. You should also know the dates and places of marriage and dates of divorce or death if appropriate Names and dates of birth of your minor children Your bank or other financial institution's Routing Transit Number [more info] and the account number , if you want the benefits electronically deposited


Information About Your Medical Condition Name, address and phone number of someone we can contact who knows about your medical conditions and can help with your application Detailed information about your medical illnesses, injuries or conditions :


Names, addresses, phone numbers, patient ID numbers and dates of treatment for all doctors, hospitals and clinics ; Names of medicines you are taking and who prescribed them ; and Names and dates of medical tests you have had and who sent you for them.


Information About Your Work


The amount of money earned last year and this year The name and address of your employer for this year and last year A copy of your The beginning and ending dates of any active U.S. military service you had before 1968 A list of the jobs up to 5 that you had in the 15 years before you became unable to work and the dates you worked at those jobs Information about any workers' compensation, black lung, and/or similar benefits you filed, or intend to file for. These benefits can :


Be temporary or permanent in nature ; Include annuities and lump sum payments that you received in the past ; Be paid by your employer or your employer's insurance carrier, private agencies, or Federal, State or other government or public agencies ; and Be referred to as :


Workers' Compensation ; Black Lung Benefits ; Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation ; Civil Service Disability Retirement ; Federal Employees' Retirement ; Federal Employees' Compensation ; State or local government disability insurance benefits ; or Disability benefits from the military This includes military retirement pensions based on disability but not Veterans' Administration VA benefits.


What documents do I need to provide?


We may ask you to provide documents to show that you are eligible, such as : Birth certificate or other proof of birth ; Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status if you were not born in the United States [more Info]; U.S. military discharge paper if you had military service before 1968 ; W-2 forms and/or self - employment tax returns for last year ; Medical evidence already in your possession [more info]. This includes medical records, doctors' reports, and recent test results ; and Award letters, pay stubs, settlement agreements or other proof of any temporary or permanent workers' compensation - type benefits you received [more info].


We accept photocopies of W-2 forms, self - employment tax returns or medical documents , but we must see the original of most other documents, such as your birth certificate. We will return them to you.


Do not delay applying for benefits because you do not have all the documents. We will help you get them.


Mailing Your Documents


If you mail any documents to us , you must include the Social Security number so that we can match them with the correct application. Do not write anything on the original documents. Please write the Social Security number on a separate sheet of paper and include it in the mailing envelope along with the documents.


If you do not want to mail these documents , you may bring them to a Social Security office. Do not mail foreign birth records or any documents from the Department of Homeland Security DHS, formerly the Immigration and Naturalization Service INS, especially those you are required to keep with you at all times. These documents are extremely difficult, time - consuming and expensive to replace if lost. Some cannot be replaced. Instead , bring them to a Social Security office where we will examine them and return them to you.


What are the advantages of applying using our online disability application process?


Our online disability application process offers several advantages. You can: Start your disability claim immediately. There is no need to wait for an appointment. Apply from the convenience of your own home or on any computer. Stop and return to your saved application before submission. Avoid trips to a Social Security office. Complete the process online even if you live outside the United States.


What happens after I apply?


After we receive your online application , we will : Provide confirmation of your application- either electronically or by mail. Review the application. Contact you by telephone or by mail if we need more information or documentation. Inform you if other family members may be able to receive benefits on your record, or if you may be able to receive benefits on another person s record, such as your spouse or your parent. Process your application. Mail our decision to you.


What other ways can I apply?


You can also apply : By phone - Call us at 1 - 800 - 772 - 1213 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. If you are deaf or hard of hearing , you can call us at TTY 1 - 800 - 325 - 0778. In person - Visit your local Social Security office. Call first to make an appointment.


If you do not live in the U.S. or one of its territories you can also contact the nearest U.S. Social Security office, U.S. Embassy or consulate.


Benefits For Your Family


When you start receiving Social Security retirement benefits , some members of your family may also qualify to receive benefits on your record.


If they qualify , your spouse or child may receive a monthly payment of up to one - half of your full retirement benefit amount. These payments will not decrease your retirement benefit. In fact , the value of the benefits your family may receive, added to your own, may help you decide if taking your benefits sooner may be more advantageous.


Benefits paid to your spouse will not decrease your retirement benefit. In fact , the value of the benefits they may receive, added to your own, may help you decide if taking your benefits sooner may be more advantageous.


Maximum Family Benefits


If one of your children also qualifies for benefits , there is a limit to the amount we can pay your family. The total depends on your benefit amount and the number of family members who also qualify on your record.


The total varies , but generally the total amount you and your family can receive is about 150 to 180 percent of your full retirement benefit.


If any of your qualified family members apply for benefits with you , we will ask you for their Social Security numbers and their birth certificates.


Benefits For Your Spouse


Even if they have never worked under Social Security , your spouse may be able to get benefits if they are at least 62 years of age and you are receiving or eligible for retirement or disability benefits. Your spouse can also qualify for Medicare at age 65.


How Much Will My Spouse Receive?


If your spouse qualifies for benefits on their own record , we will pay that amount first. If the benefit on your record is higher , they will get an additional amount on your record so that the combination of benefits equals that higher amount.


If they begin receiving benefits : between age 62 and their full retirement age , the amount will be permanently reduced by a percentage based on the number of months up to their full retirement age. If your spouse is under full retirement age and : at their full retirement age , the spouse s benefit cannot exceed one - half of your full retirement amount.


works while receiving benefits , their benefits may be affected by the retirement earnings test. also qualifies on their own record , their application will include both benefits.


Disability Determination Process


Disability Home


When To Apply


You should apply as soon as you become disabled. If you apply for Social Security , disability benefits will not begin until the sixth full month of disability. The Social Security disability waiting period begins with the first full month after the date we decide your disability began. Supplemental Security Income SSI , we pay SSI disability benefits for the first full month after the date you filed your claim, or, if later, the date you become eligible for SSI.


How To Apply


You can apply for Disability benefits online , or if you prefer , you can apply by calling our toll - free number , 1 - 800 - 772 - 1213. Our representatives there can make an appointment for your application to be taken over the telephone or at any convenient Social Security office.


People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call our toll - free " TTY " number , 1 - 800 - 325 - 0778, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Monday through Friday.


Some publications that will give you more information on disability benefits.


The Disability Starter Kit will help you get ready for your disability interview or online application. Kits are available for adults and for children under age 18.


The starter kits provide information about the specific documents and the information that we will request from you.


The kits also provide general information about the disability programs and our decision - making process that can help take some of the mystery out of applying for disability benefits.


Here are some additional publications with information on disability benefits : Disability Evaluation Under Social Security Also known as The Blue Book - Medical criteria for evaluating Social Security disability claims Social Security Disability Benefits Benefits For Children With Disabilities What You Need To Know When You Get Disability Benefits Working While Disabled...How We Can Help Medicare Receiving Your Benefits By Direct Deposit Social Security : When You'll Get Your Benefit Disability Planner


Benefits Planner: Family Benefits


When you start receiving disability benefits , certain members of your family may also qualify for benefits on your record. Benefits may be paid to your : spouse; divorced spouse ; children; disabled child ; and adult child disabled before age 22.


If any of your qualified family members apply for benefits , we will ask for their Social Security numbers and their birth certificates.


If your spouse is applying for benefits , we may also ask for proof of marriage and dates of prior marriages, if applicable.


Each family member may be eligible for a monthly benefit of up to 50 percent of your disability benefit amount. However , there is a limit to the amount we can pay your family.


The total depends on your benefit amount and the number of family members who also qualify on your record. The total varies , but generally the total amount you and your family can receive is between 150 and 180 percent of your disability benefit.


If the sum of the benefits payable on your account is greater than the family limit , the benefits to the family members will be reduced proportionately. Your benefit will not be affected.


When benefits are payable to your spouse : Age 62 or older , unless he or she collects a higher Social Security benefit based on his or her earnings record. The spouse benefit amount will be permanently reduced by a percentage based on the number of months until his or her full retirement age.


At any age if he or she is caring for your child under age 16 or disabled.


Your spouse would receive these benefits until the child reaches age 16. At that time, the child's benefits continue , but your spouse's benefits stop unless he or she is old enough to receive retirement benefits age 62 or older or survivor benefits as a widow or widower age 60.


If Your Spouse Also Worked Under Social Security


If your spouse is eligible for retirement benefits on his or her own record , we will always pay that amount first. But if the spouse benefit that is payable on your record is a higher amount , he or she will get a combination of benefits that equals that higher amount.


If your spouse will also receive a pension based on work not covered by Social Security, such as government or foreign work , his or her Social Security benefit on your record may be affected.


Benefits For Your Divorced Spouse


If you are divorced, even if you have remarried , your ex - spouse may qualify for benefits on your record.


If your ex - spouse will also receive a pension based on work not covered by Social Security, such as government or foreign work, his or her Social Security benefit on your record may be affected.


To qualify on your record , your ex - spouse must : have been married to you for at least 10 years ; be at least 62 years old ; be unmarried ; and not be eligible for an equal or higher benefit on his or her own Social Security record, or on someone else's Social Security record.


Benefits For Your Children


When you qualify for Social Security disability benefits , your children may also qualify to receive benefits on your record. Your eligible child can be your biological child, adopted child, or stepchild. A dependent grandchild may also qualify.


To receive benefits , the child must be unmarried and be : under age 18 ; or 18 - 19 years old and a full - time student no higher than grade 12 ; or 18 or older and have a disability that started before age 22.


Normally , benefits stop when children reach age 18 unless they are disabled. However , if the child is still a full - time student at a secondary or elementary school at age 18 , benefits will continue until the child graduates or until two months after the child becomes age 19, whichever is first.


Find out more about Benefits For A Disabled Child.


Disability Benefits Benefits For Children What You Need To Know When You Get Social Security Disability Benefits Information for Government Employees Benefits For Children With Disabilities


Benefits Planner


Social Security can provide you, your spouse, and other eligible members of your family with benefits : when you retire ; if you become disabled ; and when you die.


Use our planners to help you better understand your Social Security protection as you plan for your financial future. Then choose a benefit calculator to get estimates of benefits you and your family may be eligible for.


Apply For Benefits Online


If you want to apply for retirement benefits, disability benefits, or just Medicare and you meet certain criteria , you can complete your application online. You will be asked to agree to a Terms of Service Agreement and create or log in to your personal my Social Security account. If we are not able to process your request , you will receive specific information on how to contact us by phone or schedule an appointment.


If you are the spouse or divorced spouse of a retired or disabled worker , within 3 months of age 62 or older and you meet certain criteria , you can fill out your application for monthly benefits or just Medicare online.


For more information about ways to apply , visit


For more information about applying for Medicare only and delaying retirement benefits , visit


Retirement Benefits


Use our Retirement Planner to learn : how you qualify for Social Security retirement benefits ; about possible benefits you may be eligible for on someone else's record ; which members of your family may get benefits based on your earnings record ; and how and when you should apply.


Use our Disability Planner to find out how you and your family may qualify for benefits if you become severely disabled before you qualify for retirement benefits.


Even very young workers may already have earned disability protection. Learn more about work credits and how they affect disability benefits.


Survivors Benefits


Use our Survivors Planner to learn : if you die how your family members are protected or how you may qualify as a survivor on someone else's Social Security record.


This protection is particularly important for young families with children. Even very young workers may have this protection. Learn more about work credits and how they affect survivors benefits.


Spouse's Benefits


Even if you never worked under Social Security , you may still qualify for benefits if you are the : spouse or divorced spouse of a retired worker ; spouse or divorced spouse of a disabled worker ; or widow / widower or surviving divorced spouse of a deceased worker.


Online Tools


Use one of our benefit calculators to help you plan to : Get your online with your personal my Social Security account to verify that your earnings are posted correctly and to get estimates of your future retirement, disability, and survivors benefits. If you already have enough Social Security credits to qualify for benefits , you can use our Retirement Estimator to get a personalized, instant estimate of your retirement benefits. You can enter different dates and ages to determine the best time for you to retire. If you want an estimate for survivors or disability benefits, or you do not already have enough Social Security credits to qualify for benefits , use one of our benefit calculators to estimate your future retirement, disability, and survivors benefits.


What is Government Pension Offset (GPO)?


If you will receive a pension for work not covered by Social Security such as government employment , any Social Security benefits you may be eligible to receive on your spouse's record may be reduced. This type of benefit reduction is called GPO.


Some individuals are exempt from the offset. If you want to know if you meet the requirements for an exemption , please read the " When won't my Social Security benefits be reduced? " section of our " Government Pension Offset " factsheet.


Information You Need to Calculate Your Benefits If You Are Affected by the GPO


To estimate your future spouse's, widow's, or widower's benefits under the GPO , you need two things : The estimated " gross " monthly amount of your pension from your government job not covered by Social Security. The estimated monthly amount of your Social Security benefit as a spouse, widow, or widower before the effect of GPO.


If you will be eligible for spouse's benefits and have access to your spouse's estimate:


Find the estimated amount of the retirement benefit your spouse would be eligible to receive at full retirement age. If your spouse already receives benefits , ask them what their benefit would be if it started at their full or normal retirement age. Divide this amount in half and round down to the nearest dollar. This is your estimated spouse's benefit if you retire at full retirement age.


If you will be eligible for a Social Security retirement benefit based on your own earnings:


As well as a higher benefit based on your spouse's earnings , it will also affect your benefits as a spouse, widow, or widower.


To get a more accurate estimate of how the government pension you will receive for work not covered by Social Security will affect the part of your benefit based on your spouse's work : Enter the estimated " gross " monthly amount of the government pension in today's dollars you will receive for work not covered by Social Security in Step #1 of " Calculate Your Benefits. " Use your most recent estimate to determine your estimated retirement benefit based on your own earnings. Subtract the estimated amount of your retirement benefit from the estimated amount of your spouse's, widow's, or widower's benefit before GPO. Enter that amount in Step #2 of " Calculate Your Benefits " and select " Compute. " The amount in #3 of " Calculate Your Benefits " is your estimated spouse's, widow's, or widower's benefit after GPO is applied. Add that figure to the estimated amount of your retirement benefit to find your total estimated monthly benefit.


If you retire before full retirement age:


Your benefit amount as a spouse will be reduced. (The reduction will vary based on your date of birth. The maximum reduction for benefits starting at age 62 is 30 percent for someone born in 1946. It will increase to 35 percent for those born in 1960 or later.)


For more information about your estimated benefit amount if you retire before reaching full retirement age , please call our toll free number at 1 - 800 - 772 - 1213 If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call our TTY number at 1 - 800 - 325 - 0778 or contact your local Social Security office.


Calculate Your Benefits


More Information


If you will be eligible for widow's or widower's benefits or you do not have access to your spouse's estimate or records , please call our toll free number at 1 - 800 - 772 - 1213 If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call our TTY number at 1 - 800 - 325 - 0778. or contact your local Social Security office.


Even if you have never worked under Social Security , you may be able to get spouse s retirement benefits if you are at least 62 years of age and your spouse is receiving retirement or disability benefits. You can also qualify for Medicare at age 65.


If you are divorced , you may still be able to get benefits on your ex - spouse's record. For information on the requirements for Divorced Spouse's Benefits , read " If You Are Divorced


You can receive the spouse's benefit no matter what your age is if you are caring for their child who is also receiving benefits.


How Much Will I Receive?


If you qualify and apply for your own retirement benefits and for benefits as a spouse , we always pay your own benefits first. If your benefits as a spouse are higher than your own retirement benefits , you will get a combination of benefits equaling the higher spouse benefit.


If you begin receiving benefits : between age 62 and your full retirement age , the amount will be permanently reduced by a percentage based on the number of months up to your full retirement age.


If you are under full retirement age and you continue to work while receiving benefits , your benefits may be affected by the retirement earnings test.


at your full retirement age , your benefit as a spouse cannot exceed one - half of your spouse's full retirement amount.


If you were born before January 2 , 1954 and have already reached full retirement age , you can choose to receive only the spouse s benefit and delay receiving your retirement benefit until a later date. If your spouse is full retirement age and applying for spouse s benefits only , they can apply online by using the retirement application. Your spouse can also contact us to schedule an appointment.


If your spouse s birthday is January 2 , 1954 or later , the option to take only one benefit at full retirement age no longer exists. If your spouse files for one benefit , they will be effectively filing for all retirement or spousal benefits.


If you will receive a pension for work not covered by Social Security such as government employment , the amount of your Social Security benefits on your spouse's record may be reduced.


Benefits paid to you as a spouse will not decrease your spouse s retirement benefit. In fact , the value of the benefits you may receive, added to their benefits, may help your spouse decide if taking benefits sooner may be more advantageous.


If one of your spouse's children also qualifies for benefits , there is a limit to the amount we can pay family members.


The total depends on your spouse's benefit amount and the number of family members who also qualify on the same record. The total varies , but generally the total amount the worker your spouse and their family members can receive is about 150 to 180 percent of the worker's full retirement benefit.


How Do I Apply?


You can apply : Online - Use our Social Security Retirement / Medicare Benefit Application to apply for retirement, spouse's, divorced spouse's or Medicare benefits.


If your spouse is already receiving benefits when you apply , or if you and your spouse apply at the same time , we will also check your eligibility for benefits as a spouse. If you qualify , your application will automatically serve as a request for spousal benefits.


By phone - Call us at 1 - 800 - 772 - 1213. If you are deaf or hard of hearing , you can call us at TTY 1 - 800 - 325 - 0778.


In person - Visit your local Social Security office. Call first to make an appointment.


If you do not live in the U.S. or one of its territories you can also - Contact the nearest U.S. Social Security office, U.S. Embassy or consulate.


Next Steps


Even if you do not qualify for benefits on someone else's record , some members of your family may qualify for benefits on your record. If you: never married or had children , go to " How You Apply For Retirement Benefits Or Medicare. "


are interested in information about benefits for your family, go to " Benefits For Your Family. "


Apply for Retirement Benefits


Social Security offers an online retirement application that you can complete in as little as 15 minutes. It's so easy. Better yet , you can apply from the comfort of your home or office at a time most convenient for you. There's no need to drive to a local Social Security office or wait for an appointment with a Social Security representative.


In most cases , once your application is submitted electronically , you're done. Social Security will process your application and contact you by telephone or by mail if any further information is needed.


Return to a Saved Application|Check Application Status


Questions about our Social Security Retirement Benefits Application


What about Medicare?


You can apply online for retirement benefits or benefits as a spouse if you : are at least 61 years and 8 months old ; Are not currently receiving benefits on your own Social Security record ; have not already applied for retirement benefits ; and want your benefits to start no more than 4 months in the future. We cannot process your application if you apply for benefits more than 4 months in advance.


If you already have Medicare , you can still use this application to apply for retirement benefits.


If you don t have Medicare but are within 3 months of age 65 , you can use this application to apply for : both retirement and Medicare ; or just Medicare , if you aren't ready to receive retirement benefits yet.


For more information , go to Medicare.


What do I need to know before I apply?


Before you apply for retirement benefits , there are certain Social Security " basics " you should know about : Your " full retirement age " -Depending on your date of birth , that may be between age 66 and 67. This could affect the amount of your benefits and when you want the benefits to start. When you can start benefits -You may start receiving benefits as early as age 62 or as late as age 70. Benefits are reduced for age -Your monthly benefits will be reduced if you start them any time before " full retirement age. " Working while you receive benefits -If you elect to receive benefits before you reach full retirement age , you should understand how continuing to work can affect your benefits. Delayed retirement credits -Delayed retirement credits may be added to your benefits if they start after your full retirement age. Life expectancy -Many of us will live much longer than the average retiree , and most women live longer than men. More than one in three 65 year olds today will live to age 90 , and more than one in seven will live to age 95. Social Security benefits, which last as long as you live, provide valuable protection against outliving savings and other sources of retirement income. Again , you ll want to choose a retirement age based on your circumstances so you ll have enough income when you need it.


Please read Other Things to Consider for information about other things you should think about when you make your decision about when to begin your benefits. Some of the things you should think about before you decide include : how long you think you will receive benefits , your health and whether anyone else in your family can get benefits on your record.


You can find out what documents and information you need to apply by reading our " Checklist for Online Medicare, Retirement, and Spouses Applications. "


How do I use the online application?


Select the " Apply for Retirement Benefits " button above. You ll be asked to create or sign in to your my Social Security account and then go through a series of screens that will ask you questions about yourself, your family, and your work. Fill out the online application. You can complete your application in a single session or start the application now and finish it sometime later. If you: get stuck on a question , you can skip it and go back later. When you get to the end of the application , we'll let you know if there are any questions you still need to answer. can't complete your online application because you need to look something up, or for any other reason, you can " Return to a Saved Application " later without losing the information you entered. " Sign " the application electronically by clicking on the " Submit Now " button. It will appear on the screen after you have finished filling out the application. The only person who can " sign " the application is the person who is applying for benefits. A legal representative or person helping cannot sign the application. Helping Someone Apply Online.


You may not be able to use periods, commas, and other special characters when you answer some of the questions. If you use a character that a field cannot accept and you try to go to another page , you will get a message that tells you there is a problem and what caused it.


Example : You cannot use a period as part of an address. If you type " 27 N. Main St. " instead of " 27 N Main St " in an address field , you will get a message when you try to go to the next page.


After you completely fill out the application , we will ask you to confirm the truthfulness of the answers to the best of your knowledge, under penalty of perjury , and your response will be recorded. You can be held liable for intentionally providing false or misleading information.


Why apply for retirement online?


Using our online application has a number of benefits : You can avoid trips to your Social Security office. That saves you time and money. You can answer questions on your schedule. You don't have to complete the application the same day that you started it. You can start and stop the application without losing any of the information you entered. You will have a chance to correct mistakes. You can go back and make changes until you finish the application. You'll also be given a chance to review your answers and go back and make corrections before you submit the application. If you have trouble answering a question , you can find additional information in our [More Info] links. You don't need to mail your application. When you're finished , just click " Submit Now " to send your application to Social Security. You'll get a receipt for your online application. You can print the receipt and keep for your records. You can check the status of your online application. Your receipt includes a confirmation number you can use to check the status of your application. However , if you choose to apply for benefits more than two months in the future , you will not be able to check the status of your application until one month before you start receiving benefits.


How long can I stay on each page?


For security reasons , there are time limits for viewing each page. You will receive a warning after 25 minutes without doing anything , and you will be able to extend your time on the page. After the third warning , you must move to another page or your time will run out and your work on that page will be lost.


Once we receive your application , we'll review it. After the review , we will contact you if we need more information or if we need to see your documents.


We'll also let you know if ... you may be able to receive benefits on another person's record, such as your spouse. other family members may be able to receive benefits on your work record.


When we have all of the necessary information and documents , we'll process your application and send you a letter about our decision in the mail.


Other ways to apply for retirement benefits


You can also apply : By phone - Call 1 - 800 - 772 - 1213. TTY 1 - 800 - 325 - 0778 from 7 AM to 7 PM Monday through Friday. In person - Visit your local Social Security office. Call first to make an appointment.


Other Things to Consider


What Is The Best Age To Start Your Benefits?


The answer is that there is no one " best age " for everyone and, ultimately, it is your choice. You should make an informed decision about when to apply for benefits based on your individual and family circumstances.


Your monthly benefit amount can differ substantially based on the age when you start receiving benefits. If you decide to start benefits : before your full retirement age , your benefit will be smaller but you will receive it for a longer period of time. at your full retirement age or later , you will receive a larger monthly benefit for a shorter period of time.


The amount you receive when you first get benefits sets the base for the amount you will receive for the rest of your life.


You may want to consider the following when you make that decision :


If you plan to continue working , there are limits on how much you can earn each year between age 62 and full retirement age and still get all your benefits.


Depending on the amount of your benefit and your earnings for the year , you may have to give up some of your benefits. If your earnings will be high , you may decide to wait until full retirement age to start your benefits.


Once you reach full retirement age , there is no limit on how much you can earn.


Reminders : After you reach full retirement age , we recalculate your benefit amount to give you credit for any months in which you did not receive a benefit because of your earnings. When additional earnings appear on your record , we check whether they will increase your monthly benefit. If they do , we will send you a letter telling you your new benefit amount. You can apply for just Medicare at age 65 and start receiving retirement benefits later.


When you think about retirement , be sure to plan for the long term.


A man who turned 65 in 2014 can expect to live about another 19.3 years. A woman who turned 65 the same year can expect to live about another 21.6 years.


And those are just averages. About one out of every four 65-year - olds today will live past age 90. One out of 10 will live past age 95.


How long do you expect to live?


Did your parents and grandparents all live into their 80s or 90s? If the answer is yes, and you have every reason to believe you will too , you may want to delay starting your benefits until full retirement age or later. If they didn't , you may choose to start receiving retirement benefits earlier.


If you come from a long - lived family , you may need the extra money more in later years, particularly if you may outlive pensions or annuities with limits on how long they are paid.


If you are not in good health , you may decide to start your benefits earlier.


If you stop working , not only will you lose your paycheck , but you may also lose valuable employer provided health insurance. Although there are exceptions , most people will not be covered by Medicare until they reach age 65.


Your employer should be able to tell you if you will have retiree health benefits or if you can temporarily extend your health insurance coverage after you retire. Also , if you are married and your spouse is employed , you may be able to switch to their health insurance.


Should I apply for Medicare?


Remember , Medicare usually starts when you reach age 65.


If you decide to delay starting your benefits , be sure to contact Social Security about 3 months before you turn age 65 to check about applying for Medicare.


Even if you have health insurance through a current or former employer or as part of yourseverance package , you should still check to see whether you need to sign up for Medicare. Some health insurance plans change automatically at age 65.


If you need to sign up for Medicare but you do not , your Medicare coverage may be delayed and cost more. Please read the general and special enrollment period information on page 12 of our Medicare booklet to find out what may happen if you delay.


If you are eligible on another record , you may have additional options : If you qualify for benefits as a widow, widower, or surviving divorced spouse on another record , you may choose to apply for survivors benefits now and delay your retirement benefit until later.


If you delay receiving your retirement benefit until your full retirement age or later , your retirement benefit will be higher.


If you were born before January 2 , 1954 and have already reached your full retirement age, and are eligible for a spouse s or divorced - spouse s benefit and your own retirement benefit , you can choose to receive only the spouse s benefit and delay receiving your retirement benefit until a later date. If your birthday is January 2 , 1954 or later , the option to take only one benefit at full retirement age no longer exists. If you file for one benefit , you will be effectively filing for all retirement or spousal benefits.


If you don't need your benefits immediately , you may decide to :


Wait beyond full retirement age to receive delayed retirement credits.


Reminder: If you are within 4 months of age 65, or older, and you have health insurance through an employer or former employer , you should check to see whether you need to sign up for Medicare.


Some health insurance plans change automatically at age 65.


Choose early retirement and increase the value of your benefits by investing them instead of spending them.


Reminder: If you're receiving early retirement from your employer , keep in mind that some company pensions include a Social Security - equivalent supplement that stops automatically at age 62.


The supplement stops because they assume you will apply for your retirement benefits at age 62.


If your spouse or minor or disabled children will also qualify for benefits from your record , the value of their benefits, added to your own, may help you decide if taking your benefits sooner is your best choice.


If your spouse or ex - spouse s date of birth is January 2 , 1954 or later and they become eligible to receive a higher benefit on your record while receiving retirement benefits , they can no longer delay filing for the additional benefit. If your spouse files for one benefit , they will be effectively filing for all retirement or spousal benefits.


However , when you start your retirement benefits also affects the amount your surviving spouse may receive. If you start your benefits : before full retirement age , we cannot pay your surviving spouse the full benefit amount from your record. Generally , if you were receiving reduced benefits , we base the survivors benefit on that amount. after full retirement age , your surviving spouse may receive your full benefit amount plus any accumulated delayed retirement credits.


Accidents or unexpected changes in your circumstances can't be ruled out, of course , so your final decision may be based on your " best guess " about your future.


Retirement Estimator


How the Retirement Estimator Works


The Retirement Estimator gives estimates based on your actual Social Security earnings record. Please keep in mind that these are just estimates.


Estimate Your Retirement Benefits


We can t provide your actual benefit amount until you apply for benefits. And that amount may differ from the estimates provided because : Your earnings may increase or decrease in the future. After you start receiving benefits , they will be adjusted for cost - of - living increases. Your estimated benefits are based on current law. The law governing benefit amounts may change because, by 2035, the combined trust fund reserves are projected to become depleted one year later than projected last year. Payroll taxes collected will be enough to pay only about 80 cents for each dollar of scheduled benefits. Your benefit amount may be affected by military service, railroad employment or pensions earned through work on which you did not pay Social Security tax.


Who Can Use the Retirement Estimator


You can use the Retirement Estimator if : You have enough Social Security credits at this time to qualify for benefits and You are not : Currently receiving benefits on your own Social Security record ; Waiting for a decision about your application for benefits or Medicare ; Age 62 or older and receiving benefits on another Social Security record ; or Eligible for a Pension Based on Work Not Covered By Social Security.


If you are currently receiving only Medicare benefits , you can still get an estimate. For more information go to this link for our publication Retirement Information For Medicare Beneficiaries.


If you cannot use the Retirement Estimator or you want a survivors or disability benefit estimate , please use one of our other benefit Calculators.


How Long Can You Stay On Each Page?


For security reasons , there are time limits for viewing each page. You will receive a warning after 25 minutes without doing anything , and you will be able to extend your time on the page.


After the third warning on a page , you must move to another page. If you do not, your time will run out and your work on that page will be lost.


Benefits Planner: Disability | You're Approved


When Your Benefits Start


If your application is approved , your first Social Security benefit will be paid for the sixth full month after the date we find that your disability began.


For example , if your disability began on June 15 , 2018 , your first benefit would be paid for the month of December 2018, the sixth full month of disability.