3 Signs You’re Not Ready to Apply for Social Security Full Retirement Age
Many Americans eagerly anticipate the day they can start collecting Social Security benefits. However, wanting to receive those checks and being truly prepared to apply are two different matters. With the full retirement age now at 67 for those born in 1960 or later, understanding when and how to apply for benefits has never been more important. Before you rush to claim your Social Security benefits, make sure you’re not showing these three warning signs of unpreparedness.
Sign #1: You Haven’t Checked Your Earnings Record
Your Social Security benefit amount is calculated based on your lifetime earnings record. This record shows how much of your income was taxed for Social Security each year throughout your working life. Before applying for benefits, it’s crucial to verify this information is accurate.
Your earnings record is the foundation of your benefit calculation
Errors in your earnings record, though uncommon, can significantly reduce your monthly benefit amount. For example, if an employer failed to properly report your wages for a particular year, or if your earnings were recorded under an incorrect Social Security number, you could receive less than you deserve for the rest of your retirement.
How to Check Your Earnings Record
The Social Security Administration makes it easy to review your earnings history:
- Create a my Social Security account on the SSA website
- Log in to view your complete earnings history
- Review each year for accuracy, comparing with your tax records
- Look for missing years or amounts that seem unusually low
If you spot errors in your earnings record, you’ll need to gather documentation (W-2 forms, tax returns, pay stubs) and submit a Request for Correction of Earnings Record form to the Social Security Administration. This process can take time, so it’s best to check your record well before you plan to apply for benefits.
Check Your Earnings Record Now
Verify your lifetime earnings are correctly recorded to ensure you receive your full benefit amount.
Create or Access Your AccountSign #2: You Don’t Understand How Your Claiming Age Affects Benefits
One of the most consequential decisions you’ll make about Social Security is when to start collecting benefits. Many people rush to claim at age 62 (the earliest possible age) without fully understanding the permanent reduction in benefits this choice creates.
Full Retirement Age Explained
Your full retirement age (FRA) is when you become eligible for 100% of your earned Social Security benefit. This age varies based on your birth year:
| Birth Year | Full Retirement Age |
| 1943-1954 | 66 years |
| 1955 | 66 years and 2 months |
| 1956 | 66 years and 4 months |
| 1957 | 66 years and 6 months |
| 1958 | 66 years and 8 months |
| 1959 | 66 years and 10 months |
| 1960 and later | 67 years |
The Financial Impact of Your Claiming Decision
Claiming Early (Age 62)
If you claim at 62 with a full retirement age of 67, your benefit will be permanently reduced by about 30%. For example, if your full benefit would be $2,000 monthly, you’d receive only about $1,400 by claiming at 62.
Delaying Until 70
If you wait until age 70 to claim, your benefit increases by 8% per year beyond your full retirement age. This means someone with a full retirement age of 67 could receive 24% more by waiting until 70 – turning a $2,000 monthly benefit into about $2,480.
“The timing of when you claim Social Security can mean a difference of hundreds of thousands of dollars over your lifetime. This isn’t a decision to make without careful consideration of your personal circumstances.”
Calculate Your Benefit at Different Ages
See exactly how much your monthly payment would be if you claim at different ages.
Use the Benefit CalculatorSign #3: You Don’t Have All Required Documents Ready
The Social Security application process requires specific documentation. Having these documents prepared in advance will help ensure a smooth application process and prevent delays in receiving your benefits.
Essential Documents for Your Application
Required Documents Checklist
- Your Social Security card or record of your number
- Original birth certificate or other proof of age
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status if not born in the U.S.
- Military service papers if you served before 1968
- W-2 forms or self-employment tax returns from the previous year
- Marriage certificate (if applying for spousal benefits)
- Divorce decree (if applying based on an ex-spouse’s record)
If you’re missing important documents like your birth certificate, don’t delay your application unnecessarily. The Social Security Administration can often help you obtain these records. Contact your local SSA office for assistance.
Planning Your Application Timeline
The Social Security Administration recommends applying for retirement benefits three months before you want to start receiving them. This gives enough time for processing while ensuring you don’t experience a gap in income.
Typical Social Security application timeline
Remember that your first Social Security payment will arrive the month after your benefits begin. For example, if you want your benefits to start in June, you’ll receive your first payment in July. Plan accordingly to avoid gaps in your income.
Special Considerations That May Affect Your Decision
Working While Collecting
If you claim benefits before your full retirement age and continue working, your benefits will be temporarily reduced if you earn above certain limits ($23,400 in 2025). After reaching full retirement age, you can earn unlimited income without affecting your benefits.
Spousal Benefits
If you’re married, you may be eligible for benefits based on your spouse’s work record. Spousal benefits can be up to 50% of your spouse’s full retirement benefit if claimed at your full retirement age. Claiming earlier reduces this amount.
Survivor Benefits
If you’re widowed, you may be eligible for survivor benefits as early as age 60. The amount depends on several factors, including your age when you claim and whether the deceased spouse had begun collecting benefits.
Can I change my mind after applying for Social Security?
Yes, but with limitations. If you’ve received benefits for less than 12 months, you can withdraw your application, repay all benefits received, and reapply later. After reaching full retirement age, you can also suspend benefits until age 70 to earn delayed retirement credits.
How does Medicare enrollment relate to Social Security?
While Social Security full retirement age is now 67 for those born in 1960 or later, Medicare eligibility still begins at age 65. You should sign up for Medicare during your Initial Enrollment Period (three months before your 65th birthday, your birthday month, and three months after) even if you’re delaying Social Security benefits.
Are You Ready to Apply for Social Security?
Determining the right time to claim Social Security benefits is one of the most important financial decisions you’ll make. By ensuring your earnings record is accurate, understanding how your claiming age affects your benefit amount, and having all necessary documents ready, you’ll be well-prepared to make an informed decision.
Signs You’re Ready to Apply
- You’ve verified your earnings record is accurate
- You understand how claiming age affects your benefit amount
- You have all required documents gathered and organized
- You’ve calculated how benefits fit into your overall retirement income plan
- You’ve considered the impact on spousal and survivor benefits
Signs You Should Wait
- You haven’t checked your earnings record for accuracy
- You’re unsure how claiming age affects your benefit amount
- You’re missing important documents needed for your application
- You haven’t considered how working might affect your benefits
- You haven’t evaluated spousal benefit strategies
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you’re ready to apply now or need to prepare further, the Social Security Administration has resources to help.
Check Your Readiness NowRemember, there’s no single “right age” to claim Social Security benefits that works for everyone. Your optimal claiming strategy depends on your health, financial situation, marital status, and retirement goals. Taking the time to address these three key signs of unpreparedness will help ensure you make the best decision for your unique circumstances.
