I reached full retirement age in February 2024. I plan to retire August 2024. Am I eligible to receive the 6 months benefits I did not receive?

A) No, you won’t receive benefits for the months you didn’t claim, even though you reached full retirement age in February 2024. Social Security benefits only accrue from the month you file for them onwards.

However, since you’re retiring in August 2024, which is after your full retirement age, there’s a positive side:

• You won’t face any reduction in benefits like those who retire before reaching full retirement age.
• You’ll receive your full retirement benefit amount.

Here are some helpful resources for you:

• Social Security Administration – Retirement Benefits: https://www.ssa.gov/retirement
• Benefits Planner: Retirement Age and Benefit Reduction: https://www.ssa.gov/prepare/plan-retirement