The SSA has been working on smoothing the application process for a range of benefits through its website, SSA.gov. This is a deliberate step to assist in the application procedures for beneficiaries intending to apply for benefits in an easy and more convenient manner.
The following are highlights of five major benefits that qualified individuals can now apply for directly online.
- Retirement or spouse’s benefits
Individuals who are 61 years and 9 months or older, and wish to begin benefits in the next four months can apply online for retirement or spouse’s benefits. Social Security has streamlined the application process into a simple, easy-to-navigate system.
Applicants can now apply and submit their forms directly online. To start the application, go to SSA’s retirement page.
- Disability benefits
The SSA offers an online application for disability benefits for those who cannot work because of a medical condition that is expected to last a minimum of 12 months or result in death. To apply, one must be able to say “yes” to the following:
- You are at least 18 years old.
- You have not been denied for disability benefits in the last 60 days.
- You are not currently receiving benefits on your own Social Security record.
If a person was denied and it was within a short time, then that person can appeal the denial by requesting an online review. Apply or appeal to disability benefits web page.
- Supplemental Security Income
SSI pays cash benefits monthly to people with disabilities and blindness who have income and resources in a limited amount. In addition, people 65 and older who are disabled, have limited income, and few resources may be eligible. Some adults with disabilities can apply online.
To learn more and to apply, go to the SSI page. If visiting the website is not an option, one can call 1-800-772-1213 to make an appointment. If someone is deaf or hard of hearing, one may call the TTY/TDD number at 1-800-325-0778.
- Medicare
Medicare is a federal health insurance program for:
- People 65 or older.
- Those who are young and have received disability benefits for a period of 24 months.
- Those people with ESRD or ALS, whose waiting period of two years would never work.
Individuals not receiving Social Security benefits must apply for Medicare three months before to three months after turning age 65. Even if a worker is working and has employer or spouse health insurance coverage, it makes sense to explore Medicare options. Applications can be done at Medicare.
- Extra help with Medicare prescription drug costs
Extra Help Program The Extra Help program helps Medicare beneficiaries with prescription drug costs. This assistance may be applied for online. For eligibility and to apply, go to the Extra Help page.
More resources
The SSA invites anyone to open a personal “my Social Security” account to obtain personalized tools and information. On the portal, individuals can request a replacement Social Security card, check the status of an application, get estimates of their future benefits, and manage present benefits. To create or access an account please go to my Social Security.
People who want or need help that cannot be provided online, should call the SSA national toll-free service at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., or visit any local Social Security office. In-person visits require calling ahead and scheduling an appointment.
With these, all online facilities and resources provide a better view of how easily one can approach their entitled benefits and handle these benefits in their need for on-time support.
