Can I apply for social security now or next month but with starting date Aug 1?

Hi,

If you're eligible for benefits for the month of August, then yes you could still apply for them this month. If you file your application after August 31st, however, the only way that you could still claim benefits for August is if you're eligible to claim retroactive benefits. And, for example, you can't claim Social Security retirement benefits retroactively unless you are over full retirement age. For more information on this topic, refer to the following section of Social Security's handbook: https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/handbook/handbook.15/handbook-1513.html.

Before filing, you should strongly consider using our maximization software to explore and compare your benefit options in order to determine your best possible strategy for claiming benefits.

Best, Jerry