ABA Family Legal Guide

The Rights of Older Americans

Social Security and Supplemental Security Income

What documents should I bring with me to apply for benefits?

A worker applying for retirement or disability benefits should bring his or her Social Security card or proof of the number; a birth certificate or other proof of age; W-2 forms from the past two years or, if you are self-employed, copies of your last two federal income tax returns; and, if applicable, proof of military service, since you may be able to receive extra credit for active military duty.

Spouses applying for benefits from the worker's account also should bring a marriage certificate. Divorced spouses should have a divorce decree.

Children or their guardians seeking benefits need a birth certificate and evidence of financial dependence.

Dependent parents who want to collect benefits must bring some evidence of financial dependence.

Finally, spouses, children, or parents seeking death benefits need the worker's death certificate.