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.