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Reviewed July 31, 2026

Apply for Social Security retirement benefits

Choose a start month, compare the effect of claiming between age 62 and 70, and submit the application through Social Security.

Choose the benefit start month before you file

Social Security lets you apply up to four months before the month you want benefits to begin. Your first payment generally arrives the month after the start month you select.

Check whether retirement benefits may be available

You can typically receive monthly retirement benefits starting at age 62 if you have worked and paid Social Security taxes for 10 years or more. You may also qualify through a spouse, former spouse, or deceased family member, so give Social Security complete information about current and prior marriages.

Compare possible start dates

Starting before your full retirement age generally produces a permanently lower monthly retirement benefit. Waiting can increase the monthly amount until age 70. The right month depends on your income needs, health, work plans, other retirement income, family benefits, taxes, and Medicare timing.

Review your earnings record

Use your Social Security account to check recorded earnings and estimates for different start ages. Report an incorrect earnings record before or during the application; do not assume the displayed amount is correct when wages or self-employment income are missing.

Coordinate work and Medicare

You can usually apply while still working, but earnings before full retirement age can affect current payments. Medicare enrollment follows separate rules. If you are approaching age 65 and are not already receiving Social Security benefits, review the Medicare enrollment deadlines rather than assuming retirement filing will handle them automatically.

Prepare and apply

  1. Select the month you want retirement benefits to begin.
  2. Gather identity, family, work, earnings, banking, citizenship, and military-service information that applies to you.
  3. Apply online, by telephone, or through a Social Security office.
  4. Submit requested evidence and keep the confirmation.
  5. Read the award or follow-up notice and report later changes that can affect payment.

Official sources

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