A few weeks ago I made the decision to apply for early Social Security retirement benefits, despite it meaning that I will receive a lower monthly payment. First of all, I have no way of knowing if I will even be alive on my 66th birthday. Second, I have experienced major cuts in hours at work in recent months, and I need the security of steady income while I am still working. Third, I don't have to pay back Social Security until my monthly income exceeds roughly $1300.00 (unlikely with my current work schedule), so I view it as a win-win situation all around.
Decision made, I sat down the weekend before my birthday to apply online. It was pretty straightforward, but I did end up with a few questions which didn't allow me to complete the application that night. I ended up taking the documents I would need to the Social Security office the following morning. I didn't realize that an appointment was needed, but fortunately I was near the front of the line which gathered prior to the opening of the office, and was able to get in quickly. There was a helpful employee available at the public computer to answer my questions, so that I was able to quickly complete my application. I then had only a brief wait before meeting with another employee, who authorized my award (i.e. monthly payment). It was at that time I learned the the old system of payments on the 3rd of the month was replaced many years ago by an automatic deposit date based on your birthday. My payment will be deposited to my account on the second Wednesday of every month. This ain't yo mama's Social Security any more! Mom's generation was the last to be paid the third day of the month.
Social Security is also a good source for genealogical research. Not only is the standard Social Security Death Index (SSDI) still available to search--although with more restrictions due to legislation in recent years, but application and claim information can also be searched. I have found, however, that this information is as much subject to error as any other type of record. My maternal grandfather lived with my parents in California for the last 6 years of his life, yet the SSDI reports his death in his native Missouri. It just shows once again that all records are subject to evaluation to verify accuracy.
