Learn about the filing rules for married couples regarding retirement and spouses benefits that will help you decide when to claim your benefits. How you become eligible for Social Security benefits.• How your earnings and age can affect your benefits. As of April 9, 2022, Tier 5 and 6 members only need five years of service credit to be vested. You can start receiving your Social Security retirement benefits as early as age 62. Your Social Security card or a record of your number. Apply for your monthly retirement benefit any time between age 62 and 70. However, Sections 211 and 212 of the Retirement and Social Security Law of New York State present exceptions to Section 150. You can apply for retirement benefits up to 4 months before you want to start receiving your benefits. The special rule lets us pay a full Social Security check for any whole month we consider you retired, regardless of your yearly earnings.