I've worked hard with my clients to develop the Social Security claiming strategy that's right for them, optimizing their benefits while tailoring the strategy to fit their lifestyle. And that's great.

Now what? Money magically appears in your bank account? No.

Filing for Social Security isn't hard. An agency spokesman said applicants can complete an online form in as little as 15 minutes.

"In most cases, once your application is submitted electronically, you're done," said spokesman William "BJ" Jarrett in an email from the administration's national press office.

But there is some unusual paperwork that may be required and could take some digging if you have moved several times during your working lives. Best to be prepared.

Birth Certificate

It's needed so infrequently for most adults; a birth certificate can be misplaced. If it's lost, the Social Security Administration (SSA) may require a certified copy in cases of an age discrepancy (the SSA's list of state offices of vital records is a good place to start).

Tax Forms

You should have a copy of your W-2 form(s) and/or self-employment tax return from the previous year.

Military Discharge Papers

If you served in the military before 1968 you may need a copy of U.S. military service papers (such as form DD-214-Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty). Special extra earnings for periods of active duty before 1968 can be added to the Social Security work record. Don't have those papers handy? The National Archives has a site with information on how to obtain replacements. The archives say most separation papers requests are sent off within 10 days, but some requests can take months.

Bank Information

The SSA will want to know where to send the money. Direct deposit to a bank account is most common. They'll need routing information. (take a voided check with you)

If you don't have all the paperwork handy, the SSA says it's OK to get started and it's possible the agency can verify some information online for free through the Bureau of Vital Statistics, or the you can also turn in missing documents later.

You may start the claiming process online, on the phone at (800) 772-1213, or at a local Social Security office (call ahead to make an appointment).

You should be prepared to have all the necessary documentation and information ready before applying, but it's not meant to be a difficult process. In 2013 some 5.5 million eligible workers applied for and received the benefits they earned.