Welcome to the community, Emma! I'm glad you found this information helpful. Just wanted to add one more thing to consider - since you're planning to wait until 70, make sure you sign up for Medicare at 65 even though you won't be taking Social Security yet. Medicare enrollment is separate from Social Security benefits, and you could face penalties if you delay Medicare without qualifying employer coverage. Also, consider doing annual reviews of your Social Security statement to make sure your earnings are being recorded correctly, especially in these final high-earning years before retirement. Any errors now could affect your benefit calculation later. You can check this easily through your MySocialSecurity account. Best of luck with your retirement planning! It sounds like you're making a smart financial decision by waiting to maximize your benefits.

I just want to echo what others have said about the Medicare enrollment - it's so important! I made the mistake of thinking I could delay Medicare along with Social Security and ended up with a penalty that I'm still paying. Even if you have employer coverage, you'll want to understand the rules about creditable coverage and whether your plan qualifies. One resource that really helped me was the Medicare.gov website - they have a tool called "Get Ready for Medicare" that walks you through the timing. Since you're planning to work until 65 and then wait until 70 for Social Security, you'll definitely want to map out your Medicare strategy separately. Also, since you mentioned having trouble getting through to SSA on the phone, you might try visiting your local Social Security office if phone wait times are too long. Sometimes it's easier to get specific benefit estimates and scenarios explained in person, especially for complex situations like yours with the ex-spousal benefit comparison.

One important clarification about ex-spouse benefits that sometimes confuses people: applying for benefits on your ex's record does NOT reduce their benefits or notify them that you've applied. This is a common concern, but your application is completely confidential. Your ex won't know you've applied or be affected financially.

Just wanted to add from my recent experience - I was in a similar situation last year and ended up doing the online application first, then when it asked for documents I chose to mail them. Here's what worked for me: I made copies of my certified divorce decree and marriage certificate, wrote a cover letter with my full name, SSN, and reference to my online application, and sent everything via certified mail with return receipt. It took about 2 weeks but they processed everything fine. The key is making sure you have CERTIFIED copies from the court, not just notarized photocopies. Also, start the online application even if you're not sure about the documents - you can always complete that part later and it gets your case in the system. Good luck with your retirement!

my neighbor did this and got back pay too for the months since he got sick. dunno if they still do that but worth asking

Just wanted to add my perspective as someone who works in disability advocacy. What you're describing is absolutely possible, and I'm glad you were able to speak with someone at SSA who confirmed this. A few additional tips for your application: 1. Make sure to request your complete medical files from ALL providers who have treated your arthritis and heart condition - not just recent visits, but everything since your conditions began 2. Ask your doctors to complete RFC (Residual Functional Capacity) forms specifically describing your limitations 3. Keep a daily symptom diary documenting how your conditions affect your ability to perform basic activities 4. If you have any denials, don't give up - the appeals process often yields better results, especially with proper medical documentation The fact that your conditions are well-documented and clearly began before your FRA works in your favor. Best of luck with your application!

Does anyone know if the Social Security office tells u all this stuff when u go in for an appointment? I want to retire next year but so confused about all these rules!!

I went through this exact same situation last year! Born in June 1958 as well, so I can share what actually happened. Your FRA is definitely 66 years and 8 months, which means February 18, 2025 for you. I applied in November 2023 (about 3 months early) and my first payment came in March 2024 on the third Wednesday as expected - no delays because I applied early enough. One thing that really helped me was setting up my online Social Security account beforehand to track the application status. Also, make sure you have all your documents ready - W-2s, tax returns, birth certificate, etc. The application process was actually smoother than I expected when I was prepared. The key is definitely applying early. I saw friends who waited until their birthday month and then had to deal with processing delays and gaps in income. You're smart to plan ahead!

Thanks everyone for the helpful responses! I'm going to go ahead and apply now so everything's in place for my May payment. Really appreciate all the detailed explanations about the payment schedule too. I'll check out Claimyr if I run into any issues getting through on the phone.

One thing I'd add is to make sure you have all your documents ready when you apply - W-2s, tax returns, birth certificate, etc. The SSA will ask for verification of your earnings history and age. Also, if you're married, they'll need your spouse's Social Security number even if they're not applying for benefits yet. Having everything organized upfront can help avoid delays in processing your application. Good luck with your retirement!