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Pension question, United States

How do I apply for Social Security from abroad?

Online self-service needs a US Social Security number and an identity check, and SSA does not state what happens if your foreign document or your non US phone number will not pass it. Even with an account working, SSA's own application page sends an overseas applicant off the website.

  • Source: ssa.gov, read 3 October 2026

What to do next

  1. Gather your Social Security number, your date of birth and the dates of each US job.
  2. Note the month you reach full retirement age, because the six month backdating limit counts from it.
  3. Run our free check to see what else your working life may have left.

Check your own working life for free

Tell us where you worked. The free check shows which countries may hold a pension for you, and which can be ruled out and why. No sign in, no charge.

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Questions people also ask

Is Social Security paid without an application?

SSA's handbook states you must file an application to become entitled to benefits.

  • Source: ssa.gov, read 3 October 2026

Do you give advice on what to do?

No. We identify where a pension is likely held and the official route to it, and we name each source with the date we read it. We do not give financial, tax or legal advice.