Social Security official outlines retirement and pension application guidelines

Social Security official Alfonso Muñoz provides guidance on the complexities of retirement applications and early retirement planning. While submitting a request three months before leaving work can offer peace of mind, it does not guarantee an immediate resolution. The official notes that the decisive date for processing is the 'hecho causante' (the moment retirement actually occurs), and the Social Security office has a maximum of 90 days to resolve and notify the applicant.

Regarding early retirement, Muñoz emphasizes that simply subtracting years from the standard retirement age is insufficient. Planning must account for accumulated contributions and specific bonuses, such as those for having children. The standard retirement age is generally 65 if a minimum of 38.5 years of contributions is met, otherwise it rises to 67.

There are two main types of early retirement: voluntary, which requires at least 35 years of contributions, and involuntary, which applies to those losing employment against their will and requires at least 33 years of contributions.