---
kind: "section"
citation: "20 C.F.R. § 404.611"
title: "20"
number: "404.611"
heading: "How do I file an application for Social Security benefits?"
url: "https://uscodex.org/cfr/20/404.611"
---

# §404.611. How do I file an application for Social Security benefits?

- (a) **General rule.** You must apply for benefits on an application that we prescribe. See [§ 422.505(a)](/cfr/20/422.505.md?p=a) of this chapter for the types of applications we will accept. See [§ 404.614](/cfr/20/404.614.md) for places where you can file your application for benefits.
- (b) **What if I file a claim with the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB)?** If you file an application with the RRB on one of its forms for an annuity under section 2 of the Railroad Retirement Act, as amended, we will consider this an application for title II Social Security benefits, which you may be entitled to, unless you tell us otherwise.
- (c) **What if I file a claim with the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA)?** If you file an application with the DVA on one of its forms for survivors' dependency and indemnity compensation (see [section 3005](/usc/38/3005.md) of title 38 U.S.C.), we will consider this an application for Social Security survivors' benefits, except for the lump sum death payment.

## Notes

### Amendments

[69 FR 498, Jan. 6, 2004]

### Authority

Authority: Secs. 202(i), (j), (o), (p), and (r), 205(a), 216(i)(2), 223(b), 228(a), and 702(a)(5) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 402(i), (j), (o), (p), and (r), 405(a), 416(i)(2), 423(b), 428(a), and 902(a)(5)).

### Source

Source: 44 FR 37209, June 26, 1979, unless otherwise noted.

### Amendments

[69 FR 498, Jan. 6, 2004]