All United States citizens are entitled to receive a monthly Social Security retirement benefit payment. The age to begin receiving this payment is different for each person. It does not matter whether you want to collect retirement at age 62, which is the minimum age, or at age 67. You have the right to apply for Social Security, although the amount of money you receive on a monthly basis changes with this decision.
Therefore, if you apply for Early Retirement Age (ERA) at age 62, you will not receive 100% of the money you have contributed. On the other hand, requesting retirement at age 67, Full Retirement Age (FRA), means collecting all the money you deserve. Applying for retirement in Social Security after age 67 will add money to your final retirement amount. The final decision is yours, so do what you prefer.
How do I apply for a Social Security retirement benefit?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) reports that there are three main ways to apply for the retirement benefit. These three ways to apply are as follows:
- Through the Internet: from the SSA website you can start the application for the retirement benefit. This method is the most recommended because of its speed and convenience. It is very easy to complete and the questionnaire can be saved in case it is not completed in the first session.
- By telephone: You can also telephone 1-800-772-1213 between 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. This method will help you directly with your Social Security retirement application.
- At a local office: Most local Social Security offices are now open. Thus, you can apply for a retirement benefit at one of these offices. You can call ahead if you want to make an appointment and not have to wait your turn at the office.
Now that you know what methods the SSA has for applying for a retirement benefit, you can decide which one you prefer to do. After you apply, you will receive a Social Security Award Letter with the steps that follow.
