Do you have the first idea of how to get started when it comes to applying for Social Security benefits? What documents do you need to have with you when you start the process of signing up for Social Security? Should you draw from your spouse's Social Security as soon as they pass? Let’s face it, Social Security is one of those government programs that everyone knows about but very few people actually understand how it works. 

To help hardworking men and women like you cut through all the complexity, I wanted to spend some time breaking down exactly what it takes to apply for Social Security benefits. As we go through all the requirements and rules, you’ll want to have pen and paper ready. You don’t want to miss a minute of this helpful episode about Social Security and how to get started! 

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

• Applying for Social Security - when to start [1:00] 
• How to start receiving funds from Social Security [4:00] 
• Can you still earn an income if you are drawing Social Security? [6:00] 
• Survivor benefits [9:30] 
• What you need to have when applying for Social Security [11:30] 
• Documents needed from survivors. [15:00] 
• What is the windfall elimination provision? [18:00]
• Closing thoughts [19:15] 

Is now the right time to apply for Social Security? 

Should you wait until you retire from your job before you apply for Social Security? Would it be beneficial to get the process started ahead of time? According to my research, applications for Social Security benefits can only be processed a maximum of four months before benefits are scheduled to begin. So the earliest you can apply is age 61 and eight months, and you can expect to receive your first payment five months later—the month after your birthday. 

Receiving Social Security at age 62 (the earliest age you can receive benefits) means you will receive a reduced payment compared with waiting for full retirement age. For those born in 1960 or later, the reduction is 30%, and all reductions are permanent. If you delay taking your benefits past full retirement age, you receive an 8% increase for each full year you do so, up until you reach 70, at which point the increases stop. To hear more about figuring out the right time to retire based on your retirement strategy, make sure to listen to this episode! 

What you need to get started 

While many people assume that the government will start sending you everything you need for Social Security once you hit that magical age of 62 - it couldn’t be farther from the truth. You need to make a plan and you need to be proactive, don’t wait until the time comes to get your ducks in a row! 

Sometimes there are requests for documents, including original birth certificates, marriage licenses, and tax returns. Once you have completed your application and supplied all requested information, you are given a receipt for your records and a confirmation number you can use to check the status of your application online after submission. You can also follow up over the phone. Depending on your situation and what documentation may be required, your application may be approved within the same month you apply. To find the resources you need to get started, make sure to check out the links located at the end of this post.

Resources Mentioned on This Episode

• www.ssa.gov
• Social Security Phone Number: 1800-772-1213

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