Retroactive benefits
I just turned 65. If I am willing to accept my benefits based on age 65, and file to get benefits from 6 months retroactively in 6 months, does it affect the amount I receive, as long as benefits are during my year of age 65? I am wondering if in the end, it benefits me to take benefits retroactively this way,
Hi,
Your full retirement age (FRA) is 66, not 65, and you can't get retroactive benefits if you file for benefits prior to FRA. If you want to claim reduced benefits effective with the month you attain age 65, you need to file your claim no later than that month.
People who file at least 6 months after FRA can elect to receive benefits up to 6 months retroactively, but the net effect of doing that is no different than if they had filed for benefits 6 months earlier and started receiving their benefits right away. In other words, you would gain no advantage by delaying your filing date in order to be able to claim retroactive benefits.
Best, Jerry