• The Social Security Administration (SSA) oversees social security benefits for millions of elderly Americans.happy and content image by Peter Baxter from Fotolia.com
  
  The Social Security Administration (SSA ) oversees Social Security benefits for millions of older Americans. The following requirements must be met for all those seeking Social Security benefits. The Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool (BEST) can also help you find out if you are eligible to receive benefits. The application can be found at your local SSA office or online at www.ssa.gov.
  
  

Age, Timing & Location

• The first requirement is that you be 61 and 9 months years of age or older. If you have worked for 10 or more years in this country, you are also eligible to collect Social Security benefits.
  
  All applicants should apply four months before the date they want to receive benefits. Applicants must also live in the United States or one of its territories.
  
  

Identification & Documentation

• In addition to the application form, a birth certificate will be required to confirm your identity. Also, you will need to provide your current Social Security card; military release/discharge papers, if you served prior to 1968; proof of US citizenship or lawful alien status; and your current tax return or W2. The aforementioned documents must be originals or certified copies and submitted at the same time as your application.
  
  Your banking information may also be required if you would like a direct deposit setup for payments.
  
  

Spouses

• Whether married or divorced, you may still be entitled to benefits based on your spouse's (or ex-spouse's) work record. If you're married, you can choose benefits from your work record or your spouse's record; your choice will depend on which of you has the highest benefits. If you're divorced, the rule is that if you were married for 10 or more years and you have not remarried, you are eligible to receive benefits from your ex-spouse's work record. According to the AARP, you may switch from your spouse's (or ex-spouse's) benefits to your benefits any time between the ages a of 66 and 70, but you cannot apply for spousal benefits before your spouse applies for his or her benefits. You will need the same documentation, identification, age and location requirements as previously listed.