ILR early application or SW visa extension?

Hello,
I'm the main applicant currently on Gen Tier 2 and my family is on Tier 2 dependent visa.
General Tier 2 Visa validity start date- 09 Jan 2021
First Arrived in UK on- 09 Jan 2021
General Tier 2 visa expiry date- 29 Nov 2025
Continuous lawful residence period completes on 08 Jan 2026
Eligible for ILR application (-28 days) on 11 Dec 2025
Dependents visa start date was 04 May 2021 so they become eligible for ILR application on 06 Apr 2026

My question is: Can I apply early directly for ILR before my current visa expiry (29Nov2025) and book a biometric appointment when I become ILR eligible (after 11 Dec 2025) and at the same time apply for my family's (ILR?) dependent visa? OR Do I need to first apply for a Skilled Worker visa extension (for duration 6 months/1 year) before my current visa expiry (29 Nov 2025) and then apply for ILR when all of us become eligible in Apr 2026? In case of the first option, would my family be able to/ have to apply for their own ILR in Apr 2026?
Please advise. I believe the fees spent on multiple applications could be saved with option 1- apply early for ILR and delay biometrics.

They can apply at a later date in 2026 when eligible. You will not save anything by applying together at all. The fee is payable per applicant

Thank you very much for your quick reply. Considering the above dates provided, could you please tell me how much maximum gap is allowed between the online ILR application submission date and biometrics appointment date? Could you please recommend me the date for submission of my ILR application? Thank you in advance.

45 working days. The date of application is not that relevant.

Read: Applicants can benefit from the date of the ILR decision

Thank you very much, zimba, for your quick responses. I understand I would need to apply using the SET (O) form online. Which form(s) would be applicable for my dependents considering that their application would be for extension of dependent visa? What documents and evidences would be required for me and my dependents (spouse in full time employment + child 14 year old)? I really appreciate your help on this matter. Thank you!

The link to the extension application forms and what is needed for your dependants can be found on this page: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/ ... d-children

You need to provide the latest salary slip, latest bank account statement and also an employer letter.
Read: All you need to know about the sponsor letter for Skilled Worker route