Retirement Benefits

Know your options before you file.

Filing for Social Security retirement benefits is a one-time decision with long-term impact. We help you understand the timing, the trade-offs, and what fits your life.

Key Topics

What we help you think through

When to file

Filing early, at full retirement age, or later all change your monthly amount. We walk through what each timeline means for you.

Spousal & survivor benefits

Married, widowed, or divorced? There are separate rules that may entitle you to benefits based on someone else's record.

Working while receiving benefits

If you plan to keep working, we explain how earnings limits could temporarily affect your monthly benefit.

Understanding your statement

We review your Social Security statement line by line so you know exactly what it's telling you.

Preparing your application

We help you gather the right documents and understand each question before you submit your application.

Coordinating with Medicare

Retirement and Medicare timing often overlap. We help you see how the two connect so nothing catches you off guard.

Ready to file?

Choose the level of help that feels right for you.

Filing for retirement benefits comes with important questions and details. We can help you understand the process, answer your questions, and—if you choose—assist with the application itself.

Pre-filing consultation — $100

Meet for one hour to discuss filing options and get clear answers about the process.

Consultation and filing help — up to $250

If you decide to have us help file your application, the consultation fee is applied toward the total. If you know you want both from the start, we can handle most of the work during your meeting for up to $250.

It is entirely up to you.You can schedule a consultation, get your questions answered, and complete the application directly with Social Security—many people choose that route. Or, if you would rather have personal help along the way, we can guide you through the filing process step by step.
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Personal Retirement Analysis

See your filing options before you decide.

Your monthly benefit is calculated differently depending on whether you file before, at, or after your full retirement age. There is no single "right" answer — the right choice depends on your health, your finances, and your plans. We help you weigh those factors clearly, without pushing you toward any one outcome.

$275 for an individual or $400 for a couple. Complete the Planning Questionnaire first so we can prepare for your situation.

Start the questionnaire
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FAQ

Common retirement benefit questions

What is full retirement age?
Full retirement age depends on your birth year and is generally between 66 and 67. Filing before this age permanently reduces your monthly benefit; filing after can increase it.
Can I change my mind after I file?
There are limited options to withdraw or suspend a claim within certain windows. We can walk you through whether either option applies to your situation.
Do I need an appointment with the SSA to get started with you?
No. We work independently of the SSA, so we can meet with you first to help you understand your options and prepare — before you ever need to file.
Is there a cost to talk with you?
Fees depend on the service. A pre-filing consultation is $100; consultation and filing help is up to $250. A Personal Retirement Analysis is $275 for an individual or $400 for a couple. See the Agreement & Fees page for the current schedule.

Not sure when to file?

Let's talk through your specific situation — together, in plain language.

Start the questionnaire