Other Things to Consider 
What Is The Best Age To Start Your Benefits? The answer is that there is no one " best age " for everyone and, ultimately, it is your choice. You should make an informed decision about when to apply for benefits based on your individual and family circumstances. Your monthly benefit amount can differ substantially based on the age when you start receiving benefits. If you decide to start benefits : before your full retirement age , your benefit will be smaller but you will receive it for a longer period of time. at your full retirement age or later , you will receive a larger monthly benefit for a shorter period of time. The amount you receive when you first get benefits sets the base for the amount you will receive for the rest of your life. You may want to consider the following when you make that decision : If you plan to continue working , there are limits on how much you can earn each year between age 62 and full retirement age and still get all your benefits. Depending on the amount of your benefit and your earnings for the year , you may have to give up some of your benefits. If your earnings will be high , you may decide to wait until full retirement age to start your benefits. Once you reach full retirement age , there is no limit on how much you can earn. Reminders : After you reach full retirement age , we recalculate your benefit amount to give you credit for any months in which you did not receive a benefit because of your earnings. When additional earnings appear on your record , we check whether they will increase your monthly benefit. If they do , we will send you a letter telling you your new benefit amount. You can apply for just Medicare at age 65 and start receiving retirement benefits later. When you think about retirement , be sure to plan for the long term. A man who turned 65 in 2014 can expect to live about another 19.3 years. A woman who turned 65 the same year can expect to live about another 21.6 years. And tho

user: How will I know if I should apply for Medicare?

assistant: You should apply if you are age 65.

assistant: Do you plan to delay your benefits when you are 65?

user: That is the question I need to ask because I think I want to.

assistant: Since you want to delay your Medicare benefits then you need to contact Social Security about 3 months before you turn 65.

user: What happens if I forgot to sign up for Medicare?

assistant: All you need to do is read the general and special enrollment period on page 12 of the Medicare booklet and also your Medicare coverage could be delayed and cost more.

user: Do I still need to sign up for Medicare if I all ready have coverage through an employer?

assistant: Yes, you still should check to see whether you need to sign up for Medicare because some health insurance plans change at age 65.

user: Will other family members or minor children qualify for benefits under my record?

assistant: Actually, the value of their benefits added to your own will help you decide if taking your benefits sooner is your best choice.

user: What if something like an accident occurred?

assistant: Your final decision would be your best guess about the future because it would be in your best interest to account for unexpected changes.