Filing Methods

• You may file an application for Social Security benefits in one of three ways. You can call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) if you feel comfortable providing information to a representative over the phone. The second option is to visit your local SSA office and apply in person. An SSA representative will be able to assist you in filling out your application with this option. Lastly, you can apply online through the SSA website, www.ssa.gov.
  
  

Required Documents

• Regardless of which method you choose to file, SSA will expect you to provide adequate documentation to verify your eligibility. Be ready to provide your Social Security card or security number record, birth certificate, proof of citizenship or legal alien status, military discharge papers (if applicable) and your W2 or tax return from the previous year. If you do not have these documents, don't worry--SSA will work with the Bureau of Vital Statistics to confirm facts. Just alert the representative to what you are missing when you apply.
  
  

Multiple Program Eligibility

• You may be able to receive multiple Social Security benefits if you file. For example, you might qualify for both retirement and Medicare benefits, and you may be able to draw spousal benefits as well. This will depend on your situation. If you aren't sure whether you can get benefits for multiple Social Security programs, ask your SSA representative. They will ask you questions and look over your documentation to see what you can collect.
  
  

Application/Filing Age

• For retirement benefits, you can file for benefits only when you've reached 61 years and 9 months of age, since the absolute minimum at which you can draw retirement benefits is 62. Other ages for filing are variable. For example, if you are disabled, you could qualify even as a teenager via your parent's work record.
  
  

Expected Benefits

• The amount of benefits you receive upon filing will depend on your eligibility for multiple programs. You may receive as little as around $250. However, the average benefit is just over $1,000, according to a September 2010 snapshot from SSA.