Applying for SS benefits at age 67 Need help

[StevenJ232150]

My FRA is 66. I was 66 mid FEB 2018 (this year). I'd like to apply for bebefits at age 67 which I will be mid FEB 2019. I'd like to apply on line, and I understand I should apply 3 months prior. I want to be sure to get the extra 8% for delaying benefits until age 67. Is there anything I need to do on the OL application to be sure I don't start receiving benefits before mid FEB 2019 and lose the 8% extra? Thanks in advance.

[cat0w]

@StevenJ232150  Have you visited the SS website and created an account?  https://www.ssa.gov/

Have you looked at the FAQs.

https://faq.ssa.gov/en-US/topic/?id=CAT-01090

https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10147.pdf

[StevenJ232150]

I do have an account and I began an application. I'm at the point where I'm asked when I want my benfits to begin. I assume Feb 2019 (the month I will be 67) but want to be sure that's correct. Thank you.

Steve

[GailL1]

Remember that SS benefits are paid a month in arrears -

If you turn 67 in Feb. 2019 - you would get your 1st benefit for Feb. 2019 in March 2019.

Make sure that you word your application that way - Comment section:  You want your benefit began on your 67th birthday.  You can say March 2019 and then if they interpret it wrong, they will send you (2) months amount at once.  OR If you have a mySS account - you will get a verification when the application is processed and you will be able to check it.

As far as determining your extra benefit because you have waited to get benefits over your FRA - you can check it by using these percentages.

https://www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/delayret.html

https://www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/1943-delay.html

If you retire at 67 and your FULL RETIREMENT AGE is 66  - you'll get 108 percent of the monthly benefit because you delayed getting benefits for 12 months.

The last link above shows the % month by month.

[StevenJ232150]

Yes, I'm up to speed on the 8% extra for delaying 12 months. Thanks. I'll answer "Feb 2019" to the Q 'When do you want benefits to begin' and expect my first payment in March 2019. Thanks for all who replied.