Early Retirement or SSDI - Which One Do I Apply For?

At 62, you can apply for reduced Social Security retirement benefits or Social Security Disability Insurance. It's possible to apply for both at the same time, which allows you to receive reduced retirement benefits while you wait for a decision on your disability claim. However, keep in mind that choosing early retirement will lower your potential disability benefits if you're approved. When considering early retirement, it's important to balance the immediate income against the long-term impact on your benefits. Consulting with a Social Security representative can help you make a well-informed choice.