I turned 70 on 8/14/2017. I have not applied for SS benefits on my own record. I am receiving spousal benefits. What date should I apply for SS to insure I get my full 48 DRC plus six months retroactive payment? I don’t want the retroactive payment to deduct from my DRC, nor do I want to lose a month of retroactive payments. The SS office in January did not seem to be able to give me a start date later than the protected filing date which would result in one of these effects.

Hi,

You should apply no later than the end of February 2018. When you file your application, be sure to specify August 2017 as the month that you wish to start your entitlement to your retirement benefits.

Best, Jerry