Want to start receiving your Social Security benefits as soon as you are eligible or ready to claim them? The Association of Mature American Citizens advises submitting your application several months in advance of that date.
In a recent column, AMAC advisor Russell Gloor said Social Security “allows you to submit your application for benefits up to 4 months prior to the month you wish benefits to start (you will specify your desired benefit-start-month on the application).”
Thus, to have your benefits begin in January, you can submit your application as early as September. Gloor said that “will give SS plenty of time to get your benefits started on time. Remember, though, that SS pays benefits in the month following the month earned, so if you start benefits in September, you will receive your first SS payment in October (on the 3rd Wednesday).”
In response to a question about possible delays, Gloor said Social Staff reductions “have not included “front line” agents (those who handle applications), so the SS recent staff adjustments should not likely delay processing your application. Although some back-office staffing turmoil currently exists at SSA, they have been moving more people to front-line positions to try to improve their service. Just be aware, however, that it normally takes the SSA about 2 to 3 months to process new applications, which is why they allow applications up to 4 months in advance.”
Gloor said Social Security “will pay you starting with the month you requested, even if they must do so retroactively.”
You can apply for Social Security in person by making a telephone appointment to do so at 1.800.772.1213, or you can apply online at www.ssa.gov/apply. To apply online, you need to have first created your “my Social Security” online account at www.ssa.gov/myaccount. Here is a video which explains the online application process: www.ssa.gov/hlp/video/iclaim_r01.htm
