When should I contact the Social Security Administration to start my retirement benefits to maximize my lifetime payment amount in California?

To maximize your monthly benefit amount, you should generally wait until age 70, but you should contact the Social Security Administration about four months before you want payments to begin. The ideal start date to maximize your total lifetime benefit depends on your personal health, financial needs, and life expectancy. Here is how to approach the decision: Step 1: Create Your "my Social Security" Account Go to the official Social Security Administration (SSA) website at ssa.gov and create a personal account. This free tool allows you to view your earnings record and get personalized estimates of your retirement benefits at age 62, your full retirement age, and age 70. Step 2: Determine Your Full Retirement Age (FRA) Your FRA is the age you are eligible for your full, unreduced retirement benefit. It is based on your year of birth and is currently between age 66 and 67 for most individuals. Use the tools on the SSA website to confirm your specific FRA. Step 3: Analyze Your Options Compare your estimated benefit amounts. Starting at 62 provides a permanently reduced monthly payment. Waiting past your FRA until age 70 increases your monthly payment through delayed retirement credits, resulting in the highest possible monthly amount. Consider your health and financial needs to determine your "break-even" point—the age at which delaying benefits becomes more valuable over your expected lifetime. Step 4: Gather Required Documents Before applying, collect your birth certificate (original or certified copy), Social Security card, and your most recent W-2 forms or self-employment tax return. If you are applying for spousal benefits, you will also need your spouse's information and your marriage certificate. Step 5: Apply for Your Benefits You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or by making an appointment at a local SSA office. To ensure payments start on time, you should submit your application up to four months before the month you want your benefits to begin. Important details and nuances: Under California Revenue and Taxation Code Section 17087, your Social Security benefits are not subject to California state income tax. This increases the net value of your benefits compared to states that do tax them. Warnings and limitations: If you begin receiving benefits before your Full Retirement Age and continue to work, your benefits may be temporarily reduced if your income exceeds the annual earnings limit. The decision on when to claim benefits is significant and often cannot be reversed easily. This is general information and does not constitute legal advice. For complex situations, such as those involving public employee benefits or survivor benefits, consult with a qualified California attorney or a financial advisor.