Re: Retroactivity automatically applied to benefit applications filed after FRA unless claimant expressly rejects or restricts it (obtain in writing, signed & dated copy of application) - Does this automatic retroactivity apply to all who initiate retirement benefit applications ? Does the claimant have to state a basis for rejecting or restricting this automatic retroactivity ? Is there anything else to be done to insure we get our full benefit (with only Medicare premiums & tax withholdings) deducted ? thank you for your kind assistance in this matter

Hi,

When you file, you just need to be sure to specify on your application the month that you want to start drawing benefits. Social Security's paper applications, which are no longer commonly used, instruct the claimant not to answer the month of election question if they are at least 6 months or more over full retirement age at the month of filing. And, if the claimant doesn't specify a month of election to begin drawing benefits, the presumption is that they want benefits to begin with the earliest possible month. However, the latest version of Social Security's paper application states that a representative will contact claimants who do not choose a month of election (https://www.ssa.gov/forms/ssa-1-bk.pdf).

If you file online, or by telephone or in person with a Social Security representative, you simply need to specify the month that you want benefits to begin. In that event, retroactivity will not be applied unless you specifically request it.

Best, Jerry