Essential Steps for Applying for Social Security in 2025

Applying for Social Security is an important strategic decision. The amount you receive from the program depends on how smoothly the application process goes. Preparing ahead can help you maximize your benefits and ensure timely payments.

Here are three actions you should take now if you plan to apply for Social Security in 2025.

1. Create a my Social Security Account

Your my Social Security account is essential for managing your benefits effectively. This account allows you to:

• Apply for Social Security retirement benefits
• View your earnings record
• Estimate your benefits at different claiming ages
• Estimate your spousal benefits if married
• Add or update your direct deposit information
• Change your address as needed

While you can complete these tasks over the phone or at a local office, using your my Social Security account is quicker. You won’t have to navigate appointments or long wait times. It’s also more secure, helping you avoid potential fraud flags under new Social Security ID verification rules.

Setting up the account may require some time, as you’ll need to answer security questions. Once you’ve verified your identity, you can create a username and password for future access.

2. Determine the Best Age to Claim Benefits

Your my Social Security account includes a benefit estimator that helps you find the optimal age for signing up. You can see estimates for each year between 62 and 70, which is when you qualify for the maximum benefit.

It’s important to know that delaying your application can increase your monthly checks. However, for some, claiming early may yield a higher lifetime benefit, especially for those with shorter life expectancies. Others might need to claim early due to lack of supplemental income.

If these factors do not apply to you, delaying until age 70 might maximize your lifetime benefit. To estimate this, multiply the monthly benefit at 70 by 12 and then by the number of years you expect to receive payments. Compare this to potential payouts at other ages to find the most profitable option for you.

3. Understand the Claiming Rules

You can apply for Social Security benefits up to four months before you wish to receive them. However, if you’re planning to claim as soon as you turn 62, note that your eligibility starts only after you have been 62 for a full month. According to the Social Security Administration, if you were born on a day other than the 1st or 2nd of the month, you won’t be considered 62 for that entire month.

For example, if your birthday is June 3, 2025, your first benefit won’t be available until July 2025. The Social Security Administration pays benefits in the month after they are due, so you would not see your first payment until August 2025. Understanding this timeline is crucial to avoid running short on funds while waiting for your checks.

Applying early can allow you ample time to resolve any issues that might arise during the process. Ensure you gather all necessary documentation beforehand to streamline your application.

If you have questions at any stage of the process, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Social Security Administration for guidance. You can do this by phone or by visiting a local office.

The $22,924 Overlooked Social Security Boost

Many Americans are behind on retirement savings, but there are lesser-known strategies that can help increase your retirement income.

One simple tactic could potentially add $22,924 to your annual benefits. Learning how to maximize your Social Security can give you the financial confidence needed for retirement.

The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.