The Commissioner of the Social Security Administration has instructed his employees, the folks you see in your local Social Security office not to discuss with you the most advantageous month to start your benefit. Why would he do this and what are the possible problems or issues with this approach in doing business?
The reason for taking this approach to running a Social Security office is fairly simple. 10,000 people are turning 65 every day and needing to apply for Social Security and Medicare benefits. Some local Social Security offices see 500 people or more every day Monday through Friday. Staffing levels are expected to remain the same or decrease due to the government budget problems.
The Commissioner made a conscious decision to get as many people as possible to file for their benefits on line. If you do go in to the office to file they may ask you to go home and file on line or if they do take your application they will not take the time to discuss your available options. They were told to assume you did your homework, knew your options and made an informed decision.
This sounds good in theory but it leaves you venerable to making a decision that does not maximize your benefit for your situation. You have options, especially when it comes to things like MOE. Some are well know such as filing for Social Security benefits at age 62, your full retirement age or even age 70. Depending on your situation you may have other options not so well known that no one will discuss with you.
You could end up leaving money on the table every month for the rest of your life and maybe your spouse’s life. How will you know? If you find out after you file for benefits it may be too late. Do you know what your options are? You need to discuss your situation with a Social Security consultant before filing your application for your benefits.
