Filing for Social Security at Full Retirement Age (FRA)

If someone is planning on filing at the FRA and their FRA is March 6, 2023, should they file before that date or on that date? When would their first check be received?

When someone reaches their Full Retirement Age (FRA) on March 6, 2023, they should ideally file for their Social Security benefits before that date to ensure a smooth process. The Social Security Administration allows individuals to file for benefits up to four months in advance. This means they can submit their application as early as November 2022 for benefits to begin in March 2023.

By filing before their FRA, they give the Social Security Administration sufficient time to process the application, which helps avoid any delays in receiving benefits. Once the application is processed, benefits will be effective starting from March 2023, the month they reach their FRA.

The first Social Security payment will be issued in April 2023, as Social Security benefits are paid one month in arrears. For individuals born on the 6th of the month, payments are typically scheduled for the second Wednesday of each month. Therefore, the first payment reflecting the March 2023 benefits will be received on the second Wednesday of April 2023.

Filing in advance helps ensure that there are no interruptions or delays in receiving the benefits, providing peace of mind and financial security as they transition into retirement.

The content on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not legal, financial, or professional advice. Social Security rules change periodically, so some information may become outdated. For the most accurate advice, consult a certified National Social Security Advisor (NSSA®). Social Security Professionals, LLC, and NSSA® are not responsible for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on this blog's content. Use of this blog does not create a client relationship, and all information is provided "as is" without guarantees. By using this blog, you agree to hold Social Security Professionals, LLC, and NSSA® harmless from any claims or liabilities arising from its content. For personalized guidance, contact an NSSA® professional.