Can I apply for Social Security retirement benefits online or do I need to visit an SSA office?

You can absolutely apply online! I did mine last year and it was pretty straightforward. The SSA website (ssa.gov) has a retirement application section that walks you through everything step by step. You'll need your Social Security number, birth certificate info, bank account details for direct deposit, and information about your work history. The whole process took me about 30-45 minutes. Much easier than trying to get an appointment and going into an office.

i applied online in decembr, its WAY better than going in. the offices r always packed and u wait 4ever. make sure u have all ur info ready before u start. they give u a confirmation # at the end DONT LOSE IT!!

DONT DO IT ONLINE!!! I applied online and they MESSED UP my benefits calculation! Had to spend MONTHS fixing it because some computer system didn't properly count my work years from the 80s. If you go in person at least you can TALK to a real person who can answer questions right then and there instead of waiting on hold for 3 hours on the phone later when problems happen!!

My sister just started getting her SS benefits last month. She said she did the online application and then they called her on the phone for some follow-up questions about her work history. So maybe it's a mix of both?

To clarify what others have said: you can absolutely apply online, and for most people, it's the easiest option. Here's what to know: 1) Online applications are available for retirement benefits, spouse's benefits, disability, and Medicare. 2) You'll need: your Social Security number, birth certificate info, employment details for the past two years, military service papers (if applicable), and bank account info for direct deposit. 3) The online application allows you to start, save, and continue later if needed. 4) After submission, SSA may contact you if they need additional documentation. 5) If your situation is very complex (multiple marriages, foreign work, certain government pensions with WEP/GPO implications), you might still need to speak with a representative, but you can start online. The retirement application is at www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/apply.html Hope this helps!

I tried calling the SSA to ask questions before applying and was on hold for over 2 hours before getting disconnected! So frustrating. I eventually used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me through to an actual SS representative in about 20 minutes. They have a video showing how it works at https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU. The rep I spoke with confirmed that applying online is the preferred method these days, and they usually only schedule in-person appointments for complex situations or if you don't have internet access. She also said if you start online and get stuck, you can save your progress and call for help without losing your work.

my cousin works at social security she says almost evrybody does it online now. the offices r still trying to catch up from covid backlog

I just applied online two weeks ago. One tip is to try doing it in the morning - I found the website slower in the afternoons. Also have your most recent tax return handy because they ask about recent earnings.

I was hoping to apply for my retirement benefits online too, but then I realized I might qualify for spousal benefits from my ex-husband who I was married to for 12 years. We've been divorced for 15 years. Does anyone know if I can still do that online or do I need to go in? We haven't spoken in years so I don't want to have to contact him about this.

Thank you all for the helpful responses! I'm feeling much more confident about doing the application online now. I'll gather all my documents this weekend and try to submit it next week. I appreciate everyone sharing their experiences!