Making the wrong move here could prove costly in the long run.

There are three ways to apply for Social Security: Online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213 or in person. Applying online is the fastest and easiest method. Timing your benefits can significantly ...

Choose your claiming age carefully and understand how this affects the size of your benefit. It's best to apply several months in advance of when you hope to claim. Gather your documents ahead of time ...

You know your age when you sign up for Social Security matters, but once you dig into your options, it's easy to get stuck in analysis paralysis. Claim too early, and you could permanently ...

Figuring out your optimal claiming age could give you a much more comfortable retirement.

This is read by an automated voice. Please report any issues or inconsistencies here. See more from the L.A. Times in Google Search. Set us as preferred Dear Liz: I’m 59. In 8 years, I will qualify ...

Spousal benefits are available to current spouses and some ex-spouses of qualifying workers. Claiming early can reduce your spousal benefit by up to 35%. You'll only get a spousal benefit if it's ...

Waiting until age 70 to collect Social Security benefits provides the highest possible monthly payments as this is when delayed retirement credits stop accumulating. But does this strategy suit ...

Your Social Security benefit depends on your earnings and when you claim. See the maximum benefit in 2026 and what it takes ...

When you sign up determines the size of the check you qualify for, along with your income history from your working years. You can apply as early as age 62, but that's considered claiming early, and ...