Applying for Social Security is easier when you're prepared. Use our comprehensive checklist to gather all the necessary ...

Social Security retirement benefits aren't automatic. You can apply up to four months before you want them to start. Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising ...

You've decided that 2025 is the year you're finally going to claim Social Security. Perhaps it's the year you're retiring as well. It's an exciting change, and those monthly benefits can be a big help ...

Applying for Social Security by phone can involve long wait times. If your account is flagged as a possible fraud risk, you may not be able to complete your application over the phone. Having all the ...

Dear Rusty: I just turned 65 years old in February 2025. I need to sign up for Social Security but don’t even know where to start. Signed: Seeking Assistance Dear Seeking: It is fairly easy to sign up ...

There are several important decisions to make about your Social Security benefits. You decide how many years you work and which jobs you work at. You also choose when you sign up. All these choices ...

For those approaching retirement, there are several steps to take before applying for Social Security benefits. Pre-retirees should be familiar with the benefit options available to them and ...

When you sign up determines the size of the check you qualify for, along with your income history from your working years. You can apply as early as age 62, but that's considered claiming early, and ...