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Can I Change My Mind After I Start Receiving Social Security?

The Complete Guide to Social Security Do-Overs: How to Withdraw Within 12 Months or Suspend at Full Retirement Age to Increase Your Monthly Benefits.

Author

Carrie Brenner
May 09, 2025

Quick Take - The Brief

  • You can change your mind after starting Social Security, but your options depend on how long you’ve been receiving benefits and your age.

  • Withdrawal: You have a one-time, 12-month window to withdraw your application and repay all benefits received.

  • Suspension: At full retirement age, you can suspend payments to earn higher future benefits-no repayment required.

  • Act quickly: Rules are strict, and missing deadlines can lock in your decision.

  • Official help: All changes must go through the Social Security Administration.

Why It Matters

Many seniors start Social Security early for immediate income, then later realize waiting could have meant bigger monthly checks. Life changes-like returning to work or improved finances-can make you rethink your timing. Social Security’s rules give you a second chance, but only if you know your options and act fast.

Deep Dive - The Beyond

1. Withdrawing Your Application (The 12-Month Rule)

Who can do this?

  • Anyone who has started Social Security retirement benefits within the past 12 months.

How does it work?

  • You must file a formal request to withdraw your application.

  • You must repay all benefits received by you and anyone else on your record (such as a spouse or child).

  • You can only do this once in your lifetime.

What happens next?

  • It’s as if you never applied. You can reapply later, possibly at a higher benefit amount.

Why choose this?

  • If you claimed early but no longer need the income, withdrawing lets you “reset” your start date and maximize your future monthly payments.

2. Suspending Your Benefits (After Full Retirement Age)

Who can do this?

  • Anyone who has reached full retirement age (currently 66–67, depending on birth year).

How does it work?

  • You can ask Social Security to suspend your benefits at any time after reaching full retirement age.

  • No repayment is required for benefits already received.

  • Your monthly benefit will grow by about 8% for each year you delay, up to age 70.

When do payments restart?

  • You can resume benefits at any time, or they will automatically restart at age 70.

Why choose this?

  • Suspending benefits increases your monthly payments for life and can boost survivor benefits for your spouse.

3. Key Rules and Considerations

  • Withdrawal is only available within 12 months of first receiving benefits.

  • Suspension is only available at or after full retirement age.

  • Repayment for withdrawal can be substantial, especially if family members have also received benefits.

  • Medicare coverage: Withdrawing your Social Security application does not cancel your Medicare, but you’ll need to pay Medicare premiums directly.

  • Taxes: If you’ve paid taxes on Social Security benefits, you may need to file amended returns if you withdraw.

What Should You Do Next?

  • Decide quickly: If you’re within 12 months of starting benefits and want to withdraw, act now.

  • Contact Social Security: Call or visit your local office, or use the official Social Security Administration website to start the process.

  • Get expert advice: Consider consulting a financial advisor or Social Security expert to weigh the pros and cons for your situation.

Readers Toolbox

Official Resources:

Downloadable Guides:

Need help?

Contact your local Social Security office or call the toll-free phone number at: 1-800-772-1213

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In-Depth Extras

Want to learn more?

  • Read interviews with retirees who changed their minds and how it affected their finances.

  • Explore detailed examples of how withdrawal or suspension can change your monthly benefit.

  • See policy background on why these rules exist and how they’ve changed over time.

Community Corner

Have you changed your mind about Social Security?

Share your experience or questions below-your story could help others make a better decision!

References:

  1. Social Security Administration. “Retirement Benefits.” Accessed May 4, 2025. www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement

  2. Mercer. “2025 Guide to Social Security.” Accessed May 4, 2025. www.imercer.com/socialsecurity

  3. Matthews, Joseph L. “Social Security, Medicare & Government Pensions: Get the Most Out of Your Retirement & Medical Benefits.” NOLO, 30th Edition, 2025.

  4. Social Security Administration. “How to Apply for Retirement Benefits.” Accessed May 4, 2025. www.ssa.gov/retire

Tip: If you’re unsure, talk to a Social Security representative or a trusted advisor before making any changes. The rules are strict, but knowing your options can help you get the most from your benefits.