Beginning in January 2009, the Social Security Administration (SSA) announced that individuals wishing to file for social security benefits can now apply and submit forms electronically via the Internet at www.ssa.gov. The SSA made the decision to provide this online option because of the increase in applications, estimating they will receive 10,000 applications each day over the next 20 years. Now, American workers can apply for retirement benefits and disability benefits and low-income individuals can apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits in as little as 15 minutes, in the comfort of their own homes. You can begin receiving benefits at age 62, but waiting until your full retirement age will increase your monthly benefits payments substantially. When providing identifying information, be sure to supply the name of your bank and your account number for direct deposit of your benefits.