The documents and information you need before you contact Social Security
To claim Social Security for the first time, you will need to bring proof of your age, citizenship or legal residency status, and work history. Social Security will not process your claim without these three things. You do not need to gather everything at once — you can start the process with what you have and provide the rest later — but knowing what counts as proof will save you a trip back.
The easiest way to start is to call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or visit your local Social Security office in person. A representative will tell you exactly which documents they need from you based on your situation. If you were born outside the United States, the rules are slightly different, and the office can walk you through those too.
Key Takeaways
- You will need a birth certificate or other proof of age, a document showing citizenship or legal residency, and evidence of your work history (usually your Social Security card or tax records).
- You can claim Social Security by phone, in person at a local office, or online through my Social Security, though some situations require an in-person visit.
- The earliest you can claim is age 62, but your monthly payment will be smaller than if you wait until your full retirement age or age 70.
- Social Security will ask about your work history, any pensions from government jobs, and whether you are still working, because these affect your payment amount.
- The process usually takes two to four weeks from the time you submit all required documents, though it can take longer if Social Security needs to verify information.
Proof of age: what documents Social Security accepts
Social Security prefers a certified copy of your birth certificate — the kind with the raised seal or official stamp from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. If you do not have a birth certificate, you can use a passport, driver's license, state ID card, or military discharge papers. The document must show your full name and date of birth.
If you were born outside the United States, a foreign birth certificate works if it is certified and translated into English by an official translator. A passport from your country of origin also works. If you have lived in the United States for many years but never obtained a U.S. birth certificate, bring whatever document you have that shows your age — Social Security will work with you to verify it through other records.
Proof of citizenship or legal residency
If you were born in the United States, a certified birth certificate serves as proof of citizenship. If you were born outside the United States, you will need to show a U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card (green card). A temporary resident card or work permit does not count as proof of legal residency for Social Security purposes.
If you are not yet a U.S. citizen but have a green card, you can still claim Social Security benefits. Bring your green card and any other immigration documents you have. If your immigration status is still being processed, Social Security may ask you to return once your status is finalized before they can approve your claim.
Proof of your work history
Social Security already has a record of your work history if you have been paying into Social Security through payroll taxes. Your Social Security card is the simplest proof to bring, because it shows your Social Security number, which links you to your earnings record. If you do not have your card, bring two pieces of identification instead.
If you are self-employed or have worked under a different name, bring your tax returns from the past two years. If you have worked in another country, bring any documents showing that work — pay stubs, employment letters, or tax records. Social Security will cross-check your information against their records, so small discrepancies usually do not cause delays.
Information about your current situation
When you claim, Social Security will ask whether you are still working and how much you earn. If you are under your full retirement age and still working, your benefits may be reduced depending on your income. You will also be asked about any pensions you receive from government work — such as a job with a city, state, or federal agency where you did not pay Social Security taxes. These pensions can reduce your Social Security payment through a rule called the Government Pension Offset.
Have your most recent pay stub or tax return handy when you call or visit, so you can answer questions about your current income accurately. If you are married, divorced, or widowed, bring that information too — it may affect your benefits. You will also need the names and dates of birth of any children under 19 who live with you, because they may be able to receive benefits based on your record.
How to submit your claim: phone, online, or in person
You can start your claim by phone at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time. A representative will ask you questions about your age, work history, and citizenship, and will tell you which documents to mail or bring in. This is the fastest route if you have questions, because a person can answer them right away.
You can also create an account on my Social Security (ssa.gov) and file your claim online. The online form walks you through each question and tells you what documents to upload. This works well if you have all your documents ready and prefer to work at your own pace. However, if Social Security needs to verify information or has questions, they will contact you by mail or phone.
If you were born outside the United States or do not have a Social Security number yet, you will need to visit a local Social Security office in person. Find your nearest office at ssa.gov/locator. Bring all your documents with you — originals or certified copies — because the office staff will need to see them.
What happens after you submit your claim
Social Security will send you a notice by mail within two to four weeks telling you whether your claim was approved and when your first payment will arrive. If they need more information, they will ask you to provide it by a certain date. If you submitted documents by mail, keep copies for your records.
Your first payment usually arrives one to two months after your claim is approved. Social Security can pay you by direct deposit to your bank account, or by check mailed to your address. Direct deposit is faster and safer. If you do not have a bank account, you can receive payments on a prepaid debit card issued by Social Security.
Once you are receiving benefits, you will need to report any major changes to Social Security — such as a change in your work status, a move to another country, or a marriage or divorce. You can report changes by phone, online through my Social Security, or by visiting your local office.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I do not have a birth certificate?
You can use a passport, driver's license, state ID, or military discharge papers instead. If you were born outside the United States and do not have these documents, contact your local Social Security office — they can help you figure out what other documents might work and how to get certified copies.
Can I claim Social Security if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, if you have a green card or are a permanent resident. You will need to show your green card and any other immigration documents. If you are still in the process of becoming a permanent resident, Social Security may ask you to return once your status is finalized.
What if I worked under a different name?
Bring your tax returns or pay stubs showing the name you worked under, along with a document showing your current name and the name change (such as a marriage certificate or court order). Social Security will match your earnings to your record using your Social Security number.
Does it matter what age I claim?
Yes. You can claim as early as age 62, but your monthly payment will be about 30 percent smaller than if you wait until your full retirement age (66 to 67, depending on your birth year). If you wait until age 70, your payment will be about 24 percent larger. The choice depends on your health, how long you expect to live, and whether you need the money now.
How long does the whole process take?
From the time you submit all your documents, approval usually takes two to four weeks. Your first payment arrives one to two months after approval. If Social Security needs to verify information or asks for more documents, the process can take longer.