Which form you need depends on what you're doing with Social Security

Social Security uses different forms for different transactions. If you're claiming retirement benefits, you file one form. If you're reporting a death, you file another. If you're changing your name or address, you might not need a form at all — you can update online or by phone. The form you need depends entirely on what you want Social Security to do.

You can get forms directly from the Social Security Administration website, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. Many forms are also available through your my Social Security account, which you can create at ssa.gov. Having the right form before you start saves time and prevents delays.

Key Takeaways

  • Form SSA-1 is for claiming retirement benefits; Form SSA-8 is for claiming disability; Form SSA-5 is for claiming survivor benefits — each has its own requirements and timeline.
  • You can file most benefit claims online through your my Social Security account, which is faster than mailing a paper form.
  • If you're changing your name, address, or direct deposit information, you may not need a form — you can update these online or by phone.
  • Social Security will tell you which documents to bring when you file; having them ready before you start prevents back-and-forth delays.
  • If you're applying for benefits on someone else's record (as a spouse or child), you need a different form and must provide proof of your relationship.

Forms for claiming retirement, disability, and survivor benefits

Form SSA-1 (Application for Retirement Insurance Benefits) is what you file to claim your own retirement benefits. You can file this form online through your my Social Security account starting three months before the month you want benefits to begin. If you file online, you do not mail anything — Social Security contacts you if they need documents. If you prefer to file on paper, you can print the form and mail it to your local Social Security office, but this takes longer.

Form SSA-8 (Application for Disability Insurance Benefits) is for people under full retirement age who cannot work because of a medical condition expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. You cannot file this form online; you must file in person at a Social Security office or by mail. The form asks for detailed information about your condition, your work history, and your medical treatment. Processing takes several months, and Social Security will likely request medical records from your doctors.

Form SSA-5 (Application for Widow's, Widower's, or Surviving Divorced Spouse's Insurance Benefits) is for people who were married to someone who died and want to claim benefits on that person's record. You can file online if you have a my Social Security account. You will need to provide a death certificate and proof of your marriage.

Form SSA-35 (Application for Child's Insurance Benefits) is for children (including stepchildren and adopted children) of a worker who is retired, disabled, or deceased. A parent or guardian files this form on the child's behalf. Children can receive benefits until age 19 if they are in high school full-time, or until age 16 if they are not in school.

Forms for family members claiming on your record

If you are claiming retirement or disability benefits, your spouse and children may be able to claim benefits on your record. Each relationship requires a different form and different proof.

Form SSA-2 (Application for Spouse's Insurance Benefits) is for a current spouse who wants to claim benefits based on your work record. Your spouse must be at least 62 years old, or any age if caring for a child under 16 who is receiving benefits on your record. The form requires proof of marriage (a marriage certificate) and proof of age (a birth certificate or passport).

Form SSA-25 (Application for Divorced Spouse's Insurance Benefits) is for a former spouse. You must have been married for at least 10 years, and your ex-spouse must be at least 62 years old. You do not need your ex-spouse's permission to file, and claiming on their record does not reduce the benefits they receive. You will need a divorce decree and proof of age.

Forms for reporting changes and updates

You do not always need a form to report a change. Name changes, address changes, and direct deposit updates can be done online through your my Social Security account, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a Social Security office. If you change your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change (a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) to your local office or mail it in.

Form SSA-7 (Statement Regarding Your Earnings) is used only if you are working while receiving retirement benefits and your earnings are high enough to reduce your benefits. Social Security automatically adjusts your benefits based on your reported earnings, but if you think there is an error, you can file this form to report the correct amount. You typically do not need to file this form unless Social Security asks you to.

Form SSA-44 (Request for a Social Security Earnings and Benefit Estimate Statement) lets you request a detailed record of your earnings history and an estimate of your future benefits. You can view this information online through your my Social Security account instead, which is faster and does not require mailing a form.

Forms for representative payees and work incentives

If you cannot manage your benefits because of age, illness, or disability, Social Security can appoint a representative payee — someone who receives your benefits on your behalf and uses them for your needs. Form SSA-11 (Application to Become a Representative Payee) is filed by the person who wants to be the payee. Social Security investigates the applicant and may interview you before approving them.

If you are receiving disability benefits and want to work, Form SSA-393 (Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) Project Locator) helps you find a local work incentive planning service. These services are free and help you understand how work affects your benefits. You can also call 1-866-968-7842 to find a service near you.

Where to get forms and what to do with them

The fastest way to get a form is to download it from ssa.gov. Search for the form number (for example, "SSA-1") and you will find a PDF you can print. You can also call 1-800-772-1213 and ask Social Security to mail you a form, though this takes one to two weeks.

If you file online through your my Social Security account, you do not print or mail anything. Social Security will contact you if they need documents. If you file on paper, mail the completed form to your local Social Security office. You can find the address at ssa.gov/locator. Keep a copy for your records.

Do not send original documents (birth certificates, marriage certificates, or medical records) unless Social Security specifically asks you to. Send certified copies instead. If Social Security needs originals, they will tell you and may ask you to bring them in person so they can make copies and return them to you.

Processing times and what happens after you file

Processing time depends on the form and how you file. Online applications for retirement benefits typically take two to four weeks. Paper applications take longer — usually four to six weeks. Disability applications take three to six months because Social Security must review your medical records and may order new evaluations.

After you file, Social Security will contact you if they need more information. They will call you, send you a letter, or ask you to visit your local office. If you do not respond within 10 days, they may deny your claim. Keep your phone number and mailing address current so you do not miss their contact.

You can check the status of your application online through your my Social Security account. You can also call 1-800-772-1213 and give them your Social Security number to ask about your application status.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file a form online, or do I have to mail it?

Most forms can be filed online through your my Social Security account, which is faster. Disability applications (Form SSA-8) must be filed in person or by mail. If you do not have an online account, you can create one at ssa.gov, or you can file by mail or in person at your local Social Security office.

What documents do I need to bring when I file?

You will need proof of age (birth certificate or passport), proof of citizenship or legal residency (passport or green card), and your Social Security number. If you are claiming as a spouse or child, you also need proof of your relationship (marriage certificate or birth certificate). Social Security will tell you exactly what they need when you file.

What if I file the wrong form?

Social Security will contact you and either send you the correct form or help you file the right one. Filing the wrong form does not hurt you — it just delays processing. If you realize you filed the wrong form, call 1-800-772-1213 and tell them so they can correct it.

Do I need a form to report that someone died?

No. Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 and tell them about the death. They will handle the rest. If the person who died was receiving benefits, the family may be able to claim survivor benefits, and Social Security will explain what forms are needed for that.

How long does it take to get a decision after I file?

Retirement benefit decisions usually come within two to four weeks if you file online, or four to six weeks if you file on paper. Disability decisions take longer — usually three to six months. You can check your application status online through your my Social Security account.