What Is The Best Age To Start Your Benefits?

The answer is that there is no one "best age" for everyone and, ultimately, it is your choice. You should make an informed decision about when to apply for benefits based on your individual and family circumstances.

Your monthly benefit amount can differ substantially based on the age when you start receiving benefits. If you decide to start benefits:

  • before your full retirement age, your benefit will be smaller but you will receive it for a longer period of time.
  • at your full retirement age or later, you will receive a larger monthly benefit for a shorter period of time.

The amount you receive when you first get benefits sets the base for the amount you will receive for the rest of your life.

There are also some other things you may want to consider when you make that decision:

Accidents or unexpected changes in your circumstances can't be ruled out, of course, so your final decision may be based on your "best guess" about your future.

When To Contact Us

Our representatives can help you explore your options. Give us a call at our toll-free telephone number (1-800-772-1213) (TTY 1-800-325-0778) about three months before the date you think you want your benefits to start.

Medicare

Remember, Medicare usually starts when you reach age 65.

If you decide to delay starting your benefits, be sure to contact Social Security about 3 months before you turn age 65 to check about applying for Medicare.

Even if you have health insurance through an employer or former employer, you should still check to see whether you need to sign up for Medicare. Some health insurance plans change automatically at age 65.

If you need to sign up for Medicare but you do not, your Medicare coverage may be delayed and cost more.