Applying for Social Security benefits in the US used to be a long and tiring process. People had to take time off work, visit offices, and deal with heavy paperwork. But now, things are easier. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers online services so you can apply for many benefits from home.
This guide explains the top 5 benefits you can apply for online—Retirement, Disability (SSDI), Medicare, Spouse’s or Survivor’s Benefits, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Whether you’re planning for retirement, facing a disability, or helping a family member, this article will guide you step by step.
What Are Social Security Benefits?
Social Security benefits are monthly payments given by the US government to people who have worked and paid into the system. These benefits help with expenses during retirement, in case of disability, or when a spouse or parent passes away. Some benefits also help low-income individuals.
With a “my Social Security” online account, you can apply for most of these benefits without going to an office.
1. Retirement Benefits
Who can apply: People aged 62 or older who have worked and paid Social Security taxes for at least 10 years.
Why it’s important: These benefits provide monthly income after you stop working. If you wait until your full retirement age (between 66 and 67), or even until age 70, you can get higher payments.
How to apply:
Go to ssa.gov/retirement
Click on “Apply for Retirement Benefits”
Log in or create a “my Social Security” account
Follow the steps online
Tip: Applying online takes less than 30 minutes and saves a lot of time.
2. Disability Benefits (SSDI)
Who can apply: People aged 18 or older who cannot work due to a medical condition expected to last at least 12 months or lead to death.
Why it’s important: SSDI gives monthly payments if you’re unable to work because of serious health problems.
How to apply:
Visit ssa.gov/benefits/disability
Click on “Apply for Disability”
Prepare your medical records, work history, and ID documents
Submit everything online
3. Medicare
Who can apply: US citizens or legal residents aged 65 or older. Some younger people with certain disabilities can also apply.
Why it’s important: Medicare helps cover hospital stays (Part A), doctor visits (Part B), and prescription drugs (Part D).
How to apply:
Go to ssa.gov/medicare
Click on “Apply for Medicare Only”
Log in or create a Social Security account
Complete the application
Tip: Apply 3 months before turning 65 to avoid any gaps or penalties.
4. Spouse’s or Survivor’s Benefits
Who can apply: A current or former spouse of someone who worked and paid into Social Security. Also includes widows, widowers, and divorced spouses (if the marriage lasted at least 10 years).
Why it’s important: You may get up to 50% of your spouse’s retirement benefit or full survivor benefits depending on the situation.
How to apply:
Visit ssa.gov/benefits/survivors
Start the online application
You will need your spouse’s Social Security number and marriage/death certificate
Tip: Divorced spouses can also qualify, as long as they didn’t remarry.
5. Supplemental Security Income (SSI
Who can apply: People aged 65 or older, or those who are blind or disabled, and have low income and few resources.
Why it’s important: SSI helps pay for basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter.
How to apply:
Go to ssa.gov/ssi
Click “Tell Us You Want to Apply”
Fill a short form and wait for an SSA officer to call you
Tip: You can receive both SSI and SSDI if you qualify for both. Applying for one does not cancel the other.
Useful Tools and Resources
my Social Security Account – Create one to track your benefits, check status, and get estimates.
Benefit Calculators – Estimate your monthly retirement or disability benefits easily.
Office Locator – Need in-person help? Find the nearest SSA office using their online tool.
Applying for Social Security benefits is now easier than ever. You can manage everything from home with a little planning and the right information. Whether you’re close to retirement, facing a health challenge, or helping someone you love, knowing which benefits you qualify for is the first step.
The SSA’s official website offers clear forms and helpful tools to guide you through each step. Always use your “my Social Security” account to keep track of your claims and updates. So, take charge of your future and explore your options today—it’s quick, free, and could make a big difference in your life.
