One of the biggest Social Security decisions you'll have to make is when to sign up for benefits. Many choose to apply as soon as they're eligible, so they can get the most checks. But this isn't always the wisest move.

Typically, people become eligible for Social Security by working and paying into the program. But that’s not the only path to collecting Social Security in retirement. Even if you never worked, you may be entitled to spousal benefits from Social Security.