1510. Can you file one application for more than one type of benefit?

Each application form is clearly worded to show its scope as an application for one or more types of benefits. You can expand or restrict the scope of your application as long as you add appropriate remarks, in writing, on the application before we make a decision on your claim. Unless you restrict the scope of your application, the application will generally cover all classes of benefits on all Social Security numbers (SSN), for which you are eligible, regardless of the title of the application.

This rule has some exceptions:

• If you are age 65 or older, you must file for Medicare Part A if filing for any monthly benefit;
• Following the rules for deemed filing, if you are eligible for both retirement insurance benefits and spouse’s insurance benefits, you must apply for both and cannot restrict your application to only one benefit when you are born:
  • January 2, 1954 or later and eligibility for both benefits exists in any month; or
  • Before January 2, 1954, under your full retirement age, and eligibility for both benefits exisits in the first MOET to either benefit.

  The Social Security office determines the proper application form to use when you file your claim.

  Last Revised: Sept. 23, 2016