How many months in advance can you apply for benefits?

Individuals can apply for Social Security benefits up to four months in advance of the month they want their benefits to begin. This four-month advance application period is designed to ensure that there is enough time for the Social Security Administration to process the application and for individuals to receive their benefits promptly.

For instance, if someone wishes to start receiving benefits in July, they could submit their application as early as March. This timeframe helps individuals plan accordingly and ensures that there are no gaps in their benefits. Understanding this advance application period is crucial for those planning to make the transition into retirement or those who are eligible for benefits due to disability or other qualifying factors.