Top 5 Social Security Questions

Our powerful Social Security Q&A Tool debuted a few months ago, and has already helped nearly 15,000 Americans find answers to some of the most vexing questions about how Social Security benefits work.

The tool was built to answer the 150 or so most frequently asked Social Security questions — of the 12,000-plus we've received and answered so far.

So, what are the most frequently asked questions these days? Here's what our tool users are searching for most often:

I retired and took early Social Security benefits at age 62. Now that I've reached my full retirement age, 66, will I begin to receive my full benefit amount?

Uh oh — do you know the answer to this one? The short answer: no. That's why it's so important to take your time deciding when to claim your benefits.

If I retire at 62 or 64 and begin benefits, will I get an increase when I get to 66?

The short answer is still no. Remember — it can pay to wait!

I was married to my former husband for 10 years. When I turn 62, can I collect an ex-spouse benefit on his Social Security record and then, when I turn 66, switch to my own Social Security and get my full benefits?

The short answer to this one is no as well. This option only exists for those who wait to claim until their full retirement age — 66 for most of you — and it's like unlocking a door that opens several strategies.

Next: Maximum benefits? What about taxes? »