Accessing Social Security benefits has become much easier thanks to SSA.gov, the official website of the Social Security Administration. Whether you’re planning for retirement, facing a disability, or need help with healthcare costs, the site provides a quick and straightforward way to apply for various programs from the comfort of your home.
The site now allows users to apply online for retirement, disability, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, among others. Each program has clear guidelines to help you understand if you qualify and how to start your application. There’s also help available for those on Medicare, including assistance with prescription drug costs.
From retirement planning to extra support for medical expenses, Social Security offers multiple benefits that can ease financial burdens. Knowing which programs are available and how to access them online can save time and help you get the support you need faster.
Available Benefits You Can Apply for on SSA.gov
1. Retirement or Spouse’s Benefits
If you’re 61 years and 9 months old or older and planning to retire within the next four months, you can apply for your Social Security retirement or spouse’s benefits online.
👉 Apply here: www.ssa.gov/retirement
2. Disability Benefits
You may qualify for disability benefits if:
- You’re 18 or older.
- A medical condition prevents you from working and is expected to last at least a year or result in death.
- You haven’t been denied disability benefits in the past 60 days.
If you were recently denied, you can also request an appeal online.
👉 Start your application or appeal here: www.ssa.gov/disability
👉 Appeal a decision: www.ssa.gov/apply/appeal-decision-we-made
3. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI gives monthly payments to:
- Adults and children with disabilities or blindness who have limited income and resources.
- Adults aged 65 and older without disabilities but with limited income and resources.
Some adults with disabilities may be able to apply online.
👉 Learn more: www.ssa.gov/ssi
📞 Or call 1-800-772-1213 to schedule an appointment.
📞 TTY/TDD: 1-800-325-0778 (for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing)
4. Medicare
Medicare is a federal health insurance program available for:
- People age 65 and older.
- People under 65 who have received disability benefits for 24 months.
- Individuals with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or ALS (no waiting period).
If you’re not already getting Social Security benefits, you should apply for Medicare up to three months before your 65th birthday—even if you’re still working and have other health insurance.
👉 Apply or learn more: www.ssa.gov/medicare
5. Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Costs
If you’re on Medicare and need help paying for prescription drugs, you may qualify for the Extra Help program. It covers costs like copays and deductibles for Medicare Part D.
👉 Apply here: www.ssa.gov/medicare/part-d-extra-help
These online services are designed to make life easier, especially for seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income individuals. Share this information with anyone who might benefit—it could help them access the financial or medical support they need.
