In terms getting the first SS check -- it depends on when you apply in the month. The shortest time is 6 or 7 weeks. The longest is over 2 months. I get my deposits on fourth Wednesday of every month. Clearly if I started the process so the earliest possible payment was on the 4th Thursday, I would have almost a month longer to wait than if all the ducks lined up just right.

I'm not sure what you're saying here since a couple of different things are colliding. The day of the month your benefit is paid depends on your birthday and nothing else. As for the very first payment, you can apply well in advance of your start date. http://www.ssa.gov/planners/about.htm#a0=0 That link is info about the online application process, but I can't imagine the rules are more restrictive for in-person applications.

Phil
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