1511.Completing the Application Form

1511.1Do you need to fill out all questions on the application form?

You should answer all questions on the application form. If you do not know the answer to a question, answer “unknown”. If you do not answer a question needed to establish your right to benefits, we cannot award benefits.

1511.2How do you sign the application if you cannot write?

If you cannot write, signature by mark on the signature line is acceptable. The signature by mark must be witnessed as indicated on the application form. See §1500.2 which explains SSA's signature alternative to the pen-and-ink signature or mark which has been implemented for teleclaims and in-person claims.

Last Revised: Sep. 1, 2009