Many people think that when they become eligible for Social Security, the government will know and automatically start sending them a monthly check. That is not true. You need to apply for Social Security and you need to do so, three months before you plan to receive it.
Another common misconception is the retirement age to receive full benefits. It depends on when you were born.
People also believe that if an ex-spouse claims Social Security benefits under their work history, that it will decrease the amount of their benefits. This is also a myth. An ex-spouse's claim will not result in changes to any benefits that you will receive.