What you need to have when you apply for Social Security RetirementApplying for social security retirement is easier when you are properly prepared. How should you prepare? First of all, when you go to apply for Social Security retirement, be prepared for your application interview. What do I mean by this? Simply this. The retirement application process will be much smoother if you have a certified birth certificate. Additionally, if you are a permanent resident or naturalized citizen of the United States, you will need to provide a certified birth certificate from your birth country. What do I mean by "certified birth record"? A certified birth record is a document with a raised seal or an official stamp. The birth record should be from the government agency that has jurisdiction over birth records for the area in which you were born. It is not advisable to bring the complimentary birth certificate that was given to your parents from your birth hospital. Generally, the hospital birth certificates are not acceptable to the Social Security Administration as proof of birth because they are easily altered. Finally, do not bring in a copy of the certified birth record as the Social Security claims representative must see the actual certified birth record. If you do not have a birth record, the Social Security claims representative will give you a list of acceptable alternate evidence sources to establish your date of birth. If you are a naturalized citizen of the United States, you will need to bring your naturalization papers to the interview. Additionally, if you are a legal alien resident of the United States you will need to bring in proof of your alien status. Your disability application process, you should contact your local Social Security office or call the toll free Social Security number 1-800-772-1213. Return to Social Security Retirement Questions. |
