The easiest and most convenient way to apply for retirement benefits is by using our online application. You will need to create or log in to your personal my Social Security account.
If you download, print and complete a paper form, please mail or take it to your local Social Security office or the office that requested it from you. Important Note: PDFs you open from this page may default to opening within a browser, depending on your browser settings.
Required Documents for Applying for a Social Security Card U.S. driver license. Non-driver State ID (or non-driver photo ID card) Passport. Employee ID card. School ID card. Health insurance card. U.S. military ID card.
The calculations use the 2025 FICA income limit of $176,100 with an annual maximum Social Security benefit of $48,216 ($4,018 per month) for a single person and 1.5 times this amount for a married couple.
Apply for Social Security Income There is no online SSI Application. Schedule an appointment with a local Social Security office to file an application. Call 1-800-772-1213 (TYY 1-800-325-0778), Monday through Friday 7 am to 7 pm.