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Program Description

Social Security Retirement Insurance benefits may be available to you if you worked long enough and meet certain conditions.

General Program Requirements

You may qualify for retirement benefits if you meet the conditions below:

  • Worked long enough to earn enough credits.
  • Are at least age 62.
  • Apply for benefits no more than four months before the month you want them to start.

We pay benefits the month after they're due. (So, if your benefits were to start in April, you would get your first payment in May.)

Other terms and conditions may also apply. You can get more information through the links provided below.

Application Process

Visit the Retirement page to find answers to common questions and for details on how to apply.

To learn about Social Security benefits you may qualify for, use the SSA BEST (Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool). When you complete the questionnaire, you get a list of benefits to review. You can print this page for your records.

To apply for benefits, visit the Apply for Social Security Benefits page. You can also call to get benefit information and learn how to apply.

Last Updated: 05/08/2023