Larry,

I am three months from my 64th birthday and I plan on applying for my social security benefits this week. I know I am two years from full retirement but I am in a position (physically and mentally) that I really need to collect my social security earnings. Is it best to go to the SS office and file there or to file for my benefits online.

Hi,

If you are confident that you know when you want to start drawing benefits and you don't have any questions that you'd like to ask a Social Security representative, then it's probably easier to file online. Otherwise, it doesn't really matter.

Before filing, though, you may want to consider using the maximization software available on this website in order to explore your filing options and determine your best strategy for claiming benefits.

Best, Jerry