Just to add a bit more clarity on the technical aspects: There are actually two different earnings tests: 1. The annual earnings test for people who won't reach FRA during the year (limit of $22,320 for 2024) 2. The higher monthly earnings test for the year you reach FRA, which only counts earnings before your FRA month (limit of $59,520 for 2024) In your case, since you're only starting benefits in your FRA month (December), neither test applies to you. Your benefits starting with December (paid in January) won't be affected by any earnings, before or after your FRA.

This thread has been so helpful! I'm in a similar boat - turning 67 in November and have been stressed about my earnings this year. Reading everyone's experiences really confirms what I suspected but wasn't sure about. One thing I'd add for anyone else reading this: make sure you have all your documents ready when you apply. I started gathering my birth certificate, W-2s, and other paperwork early because I've heard the application can ask for quite a bit of documentation. Better to be prepared than scramble later!

To clear up any confusion: For retirement benefits, if you start benefits in the exact month you reach FRA, your benefit will be calculated based on the number of days in that month before you reached FRA. For example, with FRA on November 15: - If you select November 1 as your start date, your benefit would be reduced by about 1/2 of one month's early retirement reduction (roughly 0.25-0.3%) - If you select December 1, you get your full benefit with no reduction For most people, waiting until the month after FRA (December 1 in your case) makes the most sense, especially if you want to ensure you get your full PIA amount.

Great question! I'm approaching my own FRA soon and had the exact same confusion. After reading through all these responses, it's clear that waiting until December 1st is the smart move for your situation. The key thing I learned is that SSA pays benefits for the previous month, so your November payment would reflect that partial month before reaching FRA on the 15th. Even though the reduction might only be around 0.25-0.3%, that adds up to real money over 20+ years of retirement. Better to wait one extra month and get your full benefit amount from the start!

I'm in a very similar situation - turned 70 three months ago and still working full-time. Reading all these responses is making me panic! I had no idea the benefits stopped growing at 70. I thought I was being smart by waiting since I don't need the money right now and my employer insurance is great. But losing $15k-40k like some of you mentioned is terrifying! I'm definitely going to try that Claimyr service someone mentioned because I've been trying to get through to SSA for weeks with no luck. Question though - when you all applied late like this, did you have any issues with the application process being more complicated? I'm worried they'll ask why I waited so long and make it difficult.

As someone who works in retirement planning, I can't stress enough how important it is to file immediately! You're absolutely correct that benefits stop growing at 70 - those delayed retirement credits max out then. The good news is you've only been 70 for about a month, so your losses are minimal compared to some of the horror stories shared here. A few quick tips for your application: - You can apply online at ssa.gov/retire which is often faster than calling - If you do need to call, try early morning (8 AM) when lines are less busy - Have your W-2s from the last 2 years handy - Since you're still working, make sure to tell them about your current employer insurance when discussing Medicare The retroactive benefits (up to 6 months) should help minimize your losses. Don't beat yourself up too much - this is unfortunately a very common situation because SSA doesn't actively notify people about this rule change at 70. The important thing is you're taking action now!

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!

As someone who works at a local SSA office, I can confirm most of the advice here is spot-on! Just want to add a few practical tips for your appointment next week: 1) Bring your divorce decree and marriage certificate if you have them - it speeds up the process significantly 2) Be very specific about wanting to file a "restricted application for auxiliary benefits only" - use those exact words 3) Ask them to put a note in your file about switching to your own benefit at age 70, so there's no confusion later Also, don't be surprised if the first representative you speak with isn't familiar with restricted applications - it's becoming less common as fewer people are eligible. If they seem confused, politely ask to speak with a supervisor or someone more experienced with these types of claims. The strategy you're using is perfectly legitimate and one of the smartest moves you can make given your situation. You'll essentially get 3 years of "free" money while your own benefit continues to grow with delayed retirement credits!

I'm in a very similar situation - turned 67 last year, divorced after 14 years of marriage, never remarried, and still working. I successfully filed for ex-spouse benefits about 6 months ago and it's been great! Just wanted to share a few things from my experience: The appointment itself was pretty straightforward once I got to someone who knew about restricted applications. It took about an hour total and they processed everything that same day. My first payment came about 6 weeks later. One thing nobody mentioned - you might want to ask about having taxes withheld from your Social Security payments if you're still working full-time. Since you'll have both work income and Social Security income, you could end up owing taxes at the end of the year if you don't plan for it. I had them withhold 10% federal taxes from my monthly payments and it's worked out perfectly. Also, the SSA sends annual statements showing your projected benefit at age 70, so you can keep track of how much your own benefit is growing each year. It's really satisfying to see those delayed retirement credits adding up! You're making a smart financial move - don't let anyone tell you otherwise. This is exactly what these benefits are designed for.