📌 RETIRING THIS FALL? Don't Lose $4,500 Waiting Until January to Claim Social Security

Retiring this fall? Don't wait until January to claim Social Security. In your first year, a special monthly rule can pay you for October, November and December, even if you already earned over the $24,480 limit. On a $1,500 check, that's about $4,500 most people leave behind. IN THIS VIDEO • The Social Security earnings limit: $24,480 a year in 2026 • The first-year monthly rule: any month you earn $2,040 or less can get a full check • Part-time work, vacation pay and severance after you stop (special payments) • The honest cost of claiming 3 months early (about 1.7% less, and the 15-year break-even) • Who should wait: going back to work, the higher-earning spouse, survivor benefits • Why Social Security can't pay those months later, and how to apply up to 4 months ahead • Turning 65? The 8-month Medicare Part B window, and why COBRA doesn't stop the clock Apply at ssa.gov or call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213. Send this to someone with a last day of work coming up. Subscribe for weekly plain-English Social Security, Medicare and tax updates. Retiring this fall Social Security, when to claim Social Security, Social Security earnings limit 2026, Social Security monthly earnings test, first year retirement rule, claim Social Security before January, special payments after retirement, Social Security retroactive benefits, early retirement reduction, Medicare Part B special enrollment period, COBRA and Medicare, retiring at 62, Social Security survivor benefit #socialsecurity #retirement #retiring #seniors #medicare #earningslimit #retire2026 #socialsecuritytips General information, not financial or legal advice. Confirm your own situation with Social Security.