Social Security filing timing - apply 3 months before FRA while continuing to work?

I just went through this last year. Yes, you should apply about 3 months before you want benefits to start. When you complete the application online, there's a specific question asking when you want benefits to begin. Make sure you select your FRA month (August 2025), NOT the month you're applying. The system lets you choose a future start date. And yes, definitely mention you'll continue working past FRA so they know there's no earnings limit to worry about. The whole process was actually pretty straightforward!

my sister did this wrong last year and it was a NIGHTMARE to fix!!! she applied 3 months before FRA but didnt specify the start date and they started her benefits early with the reduction. took her like 6 calls to get it fixed and they had to take back the first payment. make sure you check that box carefully!!!

When you file your application, you need to be very specific about your intent. The online application will ask when you want benefits to begin, and you should select August 2025 (your FRA month). Your birth month being December 1958 means your FRA is indeed 66 and 8 months, which puts your FRA in August 2025. I recommend taking screenshots of this selection during the application process. Also, after you submit, call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to verify they've recorded your intended start date correctly. The wait times can be frustrating though - when I called to verify my application details, I was on hold for over an hour before getting disconnected.

I tried calling SSA last month about my retirement application and kept getting disconnected after waiting 45+ minutes! So frustrating! I finally used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that some guy at my retirement seminar recommended. They got me connected to an actual SSA agent in about 20 minutes instead of hours. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU Worth it to avoid the endless hold times if you need to call to confirm your application details. Just sharing what worked for me!

Actually, I think there's a misunderstanding here. You stated you were born in October 1958, which means your FRA is 66 years and 8 months. That would put your FRA in June 2025, not August. If you apply in March, that would be 3 months before your FRA as you originally planned. Just wanted to clarify the timeline since some of the responses mentioned August.

I filed for my SS last year right at my FRA while still working. One thing nobody mentioned - make sure your employer's HR department knows you're collecting Social Security. Mine had to adjust some payroll withholding stuff. Also, even though there's no earnings limit at FRA, your benefits might still be taxable depending on your combined income. I got surprised by that at tax time! Up to 85% of SS benefits can be taxable if your combined income is high enough.

my uncle waited till 70 to get the delayed retirement credits. got almost 30% more than at his FRA. something to think about if u dont need the $ right away

Here's another tip: When you submit your application online, you'll get a confirmation number. Write this down immediately! I didn't, and when I needed to follow up on my application status, they kept asking for it. Also, create a my Social Security account online if you haven't already - you can track your application status there and it's much easier than calling.

Just to clarify something important: Even though you'll continue working, you should still apply for Medicare at 65 (if you haven't already), regardless of when you plan to start your Social Security benefits. Many people don't realize these are separate decisions. Missing your Medicare Initial Enrollment Period can result in permanent premium penalties, even if you have employer coverage.