Social Security Q&A

Question: I applied for my baby's Social Security number in the hospital but have not received it. How long does it take?

Answer: In many states, where the birth registration process is electronic, the average wait is four weeks. But in other states, the wait can be twice or three times as long. Here's why. When a parent requests a Social Security number for a newborn as part of the birth registration process in the hospital, the state vital statistics office forwards to Social Security the information needed to assign a number to the child and issue a card. From the time Social Security receives the data, the process of assigning the number and issuing the card takes about two weeks. Learn more about Social Security cards and numbers at www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber.

Question: I've heard you can apply for retirement benefits online. But isn't it easier just to go into an office?

Answer: Filing online means there's no need to travel to a local Social Security office or wait for an appointment with a Social Security representative. Retiring online is easy and convenient. You can apply in as little as 15 minutes. In most cases, that's it — no papers to sign or mail in. Want to learn more? Visit www.socialsecurity.gov and click on the "Retirement" tab in the top, left corner. Our Web site will:

Walk you through the application process;

Tell you what information you'll need to answer the questions on the application; and

Describe the documents you may need to present after you apply.

So what are you waiting for? Get started now at www.socialsecurity.gov.

This column was prepared by the Social Security Administration. For fast answers to specific Social Security questions, contact Social Security toll-free at 800-772-1213.