I turn 70 on Feb. 5, 2017. I am going to the S.S. office in person in mid January to begin the process of filing. How can I make sure I start collecting at age 70 and not a day before? Do I need to write that on the application form? Thank you.

Hi,

You simply need to choose February 2017 as your month of election to begin benefits. Social Security payments are due in the month after the month they are paid for, so your first payment will be due in March 2017.

When you go to the office, a Social Security claims representative will ask you questions and complete your application. Just make sure that you review your copy of the application to be sure that it says that you want to start your benefits effective with February 2017.

Best, Jerry