Getting ready for retirement
- 1–2 years out: check your Social Security estimate and decide when to claim.
- 6–12 months out: review health insurance and Medicare timing.
- 3 months out: apply for Social Security (up to 4 months ahead) and plan pension or 401(k) withdrawals.
- Last day: celebrate!
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should I apply for Social Security?
Up to 4 months before you want your benefits to start.
When should I tell my employer I’m retiring?
Many people give 1–3 months’ notice, but check your company’s policy and pension paperwork timelines.
Sources
- Social Security Administration – When to apply
Last reviewed: November 2026 · By the GoldenYearsTools team at XplainedDaily · How we build our tools