Hi, Larry,

Thanks for all that you do. A quick question to which a few internet searches have not turned up an answer: I plan on waiting until 70 to begin taking social security. Do I have to notify the SSA that I do NOT plan on beginning benefits at full retirement age (66.5, which for me is five months from now)?

Thanks,
Stuart

Hi Stuart. No. Assuming that you aren't collecting Social Security disability (SSDI) benefits when you reach your full retirement age (FRA), Social Security won't automatically start paying you Social Security retirement benefits. You can simply wait to apply until you're nearing age 70, and your eventual benefit rate will be credited with all of the delayed retirement credits (DRC) you earned by waiting past your FRA to start drawing benefits.

Best, Jerry