Estate Planning

Social Security Information

How and when to sign up for Social Security.

As you approach age 62 you can apply for Social Security Retirement benefits at any Social Security office. The easiest way to file a claim is to call 1-800-772-1213 for an appointment. The Social Security Administration requests that you contact them a year before you expect to begin receiving Social Security payments.

What records will you need?

  • Your Social Security card (or a record of your number, i.e. pay stub, IRS form)
  • Your birth certificate
  • Marriage certificate (if applying for spousal benefits)
  • Your most recent W-2 form

Receiving payments.

You have a choice of receiving your benefits by mail or direct deposit into your bank accounts.