Social Security: What documents will you need to apply for Retirement Benefits?

Social Security helps Americans make ends meet each month with theirs.

Every day, thousands of Americans join the millions who apply for Social Security benefits across the country, with many opting to use the Social Security Administration’s online services.

The SSA requires different documents from those applying for retirement benefits, depending on their circumstances.

What documents will you need to apply for Social Security Retirement Benefits?

Among the documents that Social Security may request from a retired American are:

A Social Security card or other documentation containing their SS number. Those who were not born in the United States must credit U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status, with the SSA only accepting original or certified copies of documents issued by the agency issuing them.

The Social Security Administration does not accept notarized copies, photocopies, or expired documents.

Those who served prior to 1968 must present a copy of their US military service papers, with a photocopy sufficing.

A copy of the previous year’s W-2 Form or self-employment tax return.

Those who lack all of the required documents should not delay applying for Social Security retirement benefits because they can provide the missing documents later in the process, with the agency possibly assisting the applicant in obtaining them.