Can I apply for Social Security benefits for myself and my 9-year-old online or is an office visit required?

You can definitely apply for your own retirement benefits online at ssa.gov, but unfortunately, you'll need to contact SSA directly for your granddaughter's application. Child benefits can't be processed completely online when there's a custodial situation involved. The SSA needs to verify the custody arrangement.

i applied for my son last yr when i turned 65, they made me come in for him even tho i did mine online. bring birth certificate, custody papers, both social security cards & ur ID. also be ready to answer questions about any other income the child gets like child support etc

Just went through this exact situation with my grandson last year. Here's what you need to know: 1. Yes, you can apply for YOUR benefits online (and should - it's much easier) 2. For your granddaughter, you MUST contact SSA directly - either by phone or in person 3. They'll need: birth certificate, custody documents, both SSN cards, your ID, and any info about other benefits she might receive The good news is they can often start the process by phone and then you may only need one in-person visit. When you call, specifically ask if they can begin the application over the phone to minimize office visits.

Oh the SSA and their RIDICULOUS procedures!!! I went through this nightmare last year with my disabled nephew. Applied online for myself - EASY. But for him? IMPOSSIBLE. Called for WEEKS trying to get an appointment. When I finally got through they said I NEEDED to come in person. Drove 50 miles, waited 3 HOURS only to be told I was missing ONE document and had to come back!!!!! The whole system is DESIGNED to make you give up!!!

If you're having trouble reaching someone at Social Security to start this process or schedule an appointment, I highly recommend Claimyr (claimyr.com). I was in a similar situation with applying for benefits for my nephew, and after days of busy signals and disconnections, I tried their service. They got me connected to a live SSA agent in about 20 minutes instead of waiting for hours or days. You can see how it works in their video demo: https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU The agent was able to start the application process over the phone and told me exactly what documents I needed to bring for my one required in-person visit, which saved me from making multiple trips.

my friend tried to do this last year and the SSA told her wrong information THREE TIMES! make sure you double check everything they tell you

Quick question - is your granddaughter receiving any survivor benefits from her parents? That would affect how this all works.

One more important point to consider - applying at age 62 means you'll receive permanently reduced benefits (about 30% less than if you waited until your Full Retirement Age). This reduction also affects what your granddaughter can receive, since her benefit is based on yours. Have you considered the long-term financial implications? Sometimes waiting even a year or two can make a substantial difference in lifetime benefits.

u should also ask if ur granddaughter can get SSI too, sometimes kids can get both depending on the situation