Okay, you start by selecting the " Apply for Retirement Benefits " button. You will be asked to create an account,  or sign in to your my Social Security account. Then you'll go through a series of screens that will ask you questions about yourself , your family , and your work . You can fill out the application in one sitting or come back later.
what if I get stuck and don't know what to enter or select?
If you get stuck on a question you can skip it and go back to it later. You will know at the end of the application if you still have any questions you may need to answer.
okay, and if I can't do it online can I just go in or call and do it that way?
Yes, you can call and apply by phone.   You can call at 1 - 800 - 772 - 1213 ,  or TTY 1 - 800 - 325 - 0778 from 7 AM to 7 PM Monday through Friday
but if I just do it online, do I still have to print it out and sign it then send it?
No, when you are done just hit " Submit Now " to finish your application. You 'll get a receipt for your online application You can print the receipt and keep for your records .
cool, and can I just take my time and do it carefully?
Will you be taking a very long time per page? you should know that for security reasons there are time limits for viewing each page .You will receive a warning after 25 minutes of inactivity but you can extend your time.
No, I won't take that long per page so anything else I should look out for
Would it be better if I just go in to an office?