Social Security timing dilemma - how to start at exactly 66 and 10 months (FRA) not earlier

You're on the right track worrying about this! When you apply, there's a specific question that asks when you want benefits to begin. Make sure you specify January 2025 as your benefit start month since that's when you'll be exactly 66 and 10 months. Applying 3 months early is just the recommended timeline - it doesn't mean they automatically start your benefits 3 months early. The application process gives you control over your start date. Social Security benefits are paid the month after they're due, so your January benefit would arrive in February. Just be super clear when filling out the application that you want benefits to START in January 2025.

when i got ss last year i thought same thing but turns out ur first payment actually comes month AFTER ur eligible. so if ur FRA is jan 2025 u actually get first payment in feb 2025. its confusing

This is a common confusion point with Social Security retirement benefits. Here's how to handle it precisely: 1. Your FRA is 66 years and 10 months, which you'll reach in January 2025 2. On the application (whether online or paper), there's a specific question: "When do you want your benefits to start?" 3. You should select January 2025 as your benefit start month 4. Apply around October 2024 (3 months before) as SSA suggests 5. Your first payment (for January 2025) will arrive in February 2025 The application allows you to specify exactly when benefits begin, regardless of when you apply. Just be very clear that you want January 2025 as your start month, not your application month. The SSA representative should confirm this during the process.

I had the exact same issue when filing last year! Calling SSA directly was a NIGHTMARE - spent 4 hours on hold only to get disconnected twice. Finally I used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through to an agent in about 15 minutes. They have a demo video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU The agent confirmed I could apply 3 months early but specify my exact benefit start date matching my FRA. Don't stress about applying "too early" - the important part is selecting the correct benefit start month on the application. The agent walked me through exactly where to indicate this on the form.

i messed up my application and had to fix it. not worth the headache trust me. make sure u do it right first time

THE APPLICATION IS TRICKY!!!! I applied last year and they started my benefits A MONTH EARLIER than I wanted!!!! Had to spend WEEKS getting it fixed. Make SURE when it asks about your start date you put JANUARY 2025!!!! Don't let them talk you into starting earlier because "you can get your money sooner" - that's what the rep told me and I lost $$ in the long run!!!!!

One more thing to consider - benefits are paid for the previous month. So your January 2025 benefit payment (the month you reach FRA) will be paid in February 2025. This is normal and doesn't mean you're starting late. Some people get confused about this. Just wanted to clarify that the payment date is different from the benefit eligibility date.

I'm just wondering - have you considered the implications of starting exactly at FRA versus waiting until 70? Each year you delay past FRA increases your benefit by 8%. If you can afford to wait, you might want to calculate whether that's more advantageous for your situation. Just something to think about if you haven't already considered it.

Thank you everyone for the helpful advice! I'm going to apply in October and make absolutely sure I select January 2025 as my benefit start month. I'll also print out everything and keep detailed records of my application just in case there are any issues. I feel much more confident now about hitting my exact FRA without accidentally filing early.