What if I change my mind about when to begin Social Security benefits?

You have a limited opportunity to change your mind after you’ve applied for benefits. You can complete Form SSA-521, Request for Withdrawal of Application, and reapply at a later date. But if you’re already receiving benefits, you can only withdraw your claim if it has been less than 12 months since you first became entitled to benefits, and you’re limited to one withdrawal per lifetime. In addition, there are financial consequences — you must repay all benefits already paid to you or your family members based on your application, as well as any money withheld from your checks, including Medicare premiums, or tax withholding. Contact the Social Security Administration at ssa.gov for more information.

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES

Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc. and Westwood Holdings Group, Inc. do not provide investment, tax, legal, or retirement advice or recommendations. The information presented here is not specific to any individual’s personal circumstances.

To the extent that this material concerns tax matters, it is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, by a taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed by law. Each taxpayer should seek independent advice from a tax professional based on his or her individual circumstances.

These materials are provided for general information and educational purposes based upon publicly available information from sources believed to be reliable — we cannot assure the accuracy or completeness of these materials. The information in these materials may change at any time and without notice.