When to Start Collecting Social Security

Social Security is a safety net for those who qualify and need the financial help. In order to qualify, you must be over a certain age, disabled or the parent of a disabled child. If you are the spouse or child of someone who receives Social Security disability benefits, then you may qualify to receive it, too.

As Soon as You Reach Retirement Age

While this age may change over time, as of 2010 the full retirement age was 66 years old, with early retirement benefits kicking in at age 62. Early retirement is an option, but you will receive reduced benefit payments until you reach the full retirement age.

As Soon as You Become Disabled

Social Security disability may have a waiting period of up to five months. This means that they will wait five months after they declare you disabled before they start paying your disability benefits. For this reason, it is important to get the process started as soon as possible by not delaying your Social Security disability application.

As Soon as Your Child is Diagnosed with a Disability

If your child has been diagnosed with a qualifying disability, then they are entitled to receive supplemental security income from Social Security. Supplemental security income gives your child a small payment each month to help accommodate his or her disability needs. This helps lower-income families with disabled children afford the things their child needs to function or to help cover medical costs. As of 2011, the maximum supplemental security income amount was $674 per month.