In the United States, especially in the sunny state of Los Angeles, California, some of the citizens are hesitant in applying for retirement benefits offered by the Social Security Administration because they have no idea on how to apply for such.

While some people do not know what the requirements are, some are not even aware that they are already qualified for these benefits.

The aim of this article is to aid the general public, especially those who are about to reach or have already reached the age of retirement, by informing them of the requisites needed for the social benefit provided for by law.

Retirement Benefits are calculated based on a person’s average earning during his lifetime of work. The number of credits one needs to avail of the retirement benefits is based on his date of birth.

Generally, people should file for retirement coverage around 4-5 months before retiring or before reaching the retirement age.

The full retirement age is 65 years. Upon reaching the said age, one is entitled to receive the full amount of the coverage.

People age 62 can already apply for early retirement but their monthly benefit shall be reduced permanently. Yet they shall be collecting their benefits for a longer period.

However, early retirees cannot receive their Medicare yet. Medicare benefits based on retirement can be availed of when the member reaches the age of 65 years. But the early retirees can continue their medical insurance coverage through their employers or through private insurance companies until they become eligible for Medicare.

On the other hand, individuals may still work beyond the retirement age. In such a case, they shall earn an increase in their retirement benefit. In fact, each additional year that an individual works shall be equivalent to one additional year that he will be receiving earnings to his Social Security record.

One’s social security benefits are calculated using the benefits calculator. It calculates one’s potential benefits amount with the use of different retirement dates and possible future earnings.

Listed below are the specific requirements in applying for retirement benefits as set forth by law. You will need:

• Your Social Security Number;

• Your Birth Certificate;

• Your Self-Employment Tax Return of the previous year;

• If you served for the military before 1968, Your Military Discharge Papers;

• If your spouse wants to avail of the benefits, Your Spouse's Birth certificate and Social Security number;

• If your children wants to avail of the benefits, Their Birth Certificates and Social Security Numbers;

• If you are born outside of the United States, Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Alien Status;

• If your spouse or child are born outside the United States and they are applying for benefits, Their Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Alien Status; and

• In order for the retirement benefits to be directly forwarded to you, your Bank and Your Account Number.

For other concerns regarding your Retirement Benefits, you may call or visit the Social Security Administration or consult your attorney regarding your claims.