Apply for Retirement Benefits 
Starting your Social Security retirement benefits is a major step on your retirement journey. This page will guide you through the process of applying for retirement benefits when you re ready to take that step. Our online application is a convenient way to apply on your own schedule, without an appointment. You can also apply by phone or by appointment at a Social Security office. 

Ready To Retire? 
Start your application today Apply Online For Retirement Benefits Jump to a topic on this page : Before You Apply / How To Apply / Once You've Applied 

Before You Apply 
Before you apply , take time to review the basics, understand the process, and gather the documents you ll need to complete an application. 

Review Retirement Benefits Basics 
You can start your retirement benefits as early as age 62 or as late as age 70. If you re preparing to apply for retirement benefits, knowing when you re eligible to apply and how the system works are the first steps in choosing what age is right for you. Before you submit an application , go to our Learn About Retirement Benefits page to understand : How you qualify for Social Security benefits. How your earnings and age can affect your benefits. What you should consider in deciding when to start receiving benefits. Retirement benefits for spouses and family members. 

Understand The Application Process 
The retirement benefits application process follows these general steps, whether you apply online, by phone, or in person : Gather the information and documents you need to apply. Complete and submit your application. We review your application and contact you if we need more information. We mail you a decision letter. You start receiving your retirement benefits. 

How Early Can I Apply? 
Apply four months before you want your Social Security retirement benefits to start. If you want your benefits to start at age 62 , you can apply at age 61 and eight months. 

Ready To Start Medicare? 
If you

user: I was wondering where I can find information for my application. I want to apply for retirement benefits.

assistant: Of course. Before you apply, be ready to provide your Social Security number and information.

user: What else should I do to prepare for my application?

assistant: First gather the documents listed on our Checklist for Online Medicare, Retirement & Spouses Application. Instructions on how to submit your documents will appear at the end of the online application.

user: Can I withdraw my application if I change my mind?

assistant: Yes. Sometimes life changes occur after you submit your application. You have up to 12 months to withdraw your application, if you change your mind. You will be required to repay any benefits you've already received.

user: Alright. Can I fill out my application but wait before sending it in?

assistant: You can save your application to finish another time if needed. Next time you sign in, go to Return to a Saved Application.

user: What if during my retirement I want to live outside of the U.S.?

assistant: Contact the Federal Benefits Unit for your country of residence if you live outside the U.S. or a U.S. territory and wish to apply for retirement benefits.

assistant: Do you want to know what an account is?