To make the process easier for Spanish speakers with limited English skills, the Social Security Administration has translated the applications for the following benefits: 

• Retirement benefits: This is a retirement plan for qualified workers in the U.S. To apply for these benefits you need to be at least 62 years old. 
• Medicare benefits: Medicare is a national health plan offered to people who are 65 years or older. 
• Prescription drugs benefits: Social Security helps some Medicare beneficiaries cover the cost of prescription drugs. 

Once completed, applications are sent electronically to a local Social Security office. An agency representative will determine if more information is needed and if so, contact the applicant directly.  

In some instances, applicants may need to visit a local Social Security office. For example, if they would rather hand-deliver original documents, such as naturalization certificates or permanent residency cards, instead of sending them through the mail.