To apply for Social Security benefits in the United States, you can follow these steps:

1. Determine Eligibility and Type of Benefits
   Identify which benefits you want to apply for, such as retirement benefits, disability benefits, Medicare, or survivor benefits

2. Gather Required Information and Documents
   Prepare personal information including:

   • Your Social Security number, date and place of birth
   • Information about your spouse(s) and children, if applicable
   • Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status
   • Employment history and earnings information (W-2 forms, self-employment tax returns)
   • Banking information for direct deposit
   • Military service papers if applicable
   • Other documents like birth certificate, marriage/divorce records, etc.

3. Apply Online, By Phone, or In Person
   • The easiest way is to apply online through the Social Security Administration’s website by creating or logging into your "my Social Security" account

 * Alternatively, you can call the SSA toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time

 * You may also visit your local Social Security office (call ahead to make an appointment)

4. Submit Documents
   If mailing documents, include your Social Security number on a separate sheet (not on the original documents) and send it along with the required papers. You can also bring documents directly to a Social Security office

5. Timing
   You can apply for retirement benefits up to 4 months before you want your benefits to begin. If you are approaching age 65, you should also apply for Medicare 3 months before your birthday

6. After Applying
   You can manage your benefits online, check application status, update information, and access tax documents through your "my Social Security" account

This process ensures you apply correctly and provide all necessary information to receive your Social Security benefits without delay