Social Security · Free PDF · 8 pages
When Should You Claim Social Security?
The claiming-age decision, explained with the rules and the trade-offs.
What you'll learn
- Exactly how much your check changes at every claiming age from 62 to 70
- Break-even ages — and why they're a starting point, not the answer
- How spousal and survivor benefits change the math for couples
- The earnings test, taxes on benefits, and other surprises worth knowing early
Results are estimates for educational purposes and may not reflect your complete financial or tax situation. This guide is educational and is not individualized financial, tax, or legal advice.
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Use alongside this guide
- Social Security TimingCompare claiming at every age from 62 to 70 and see monthly amounts, lifetime totals, and break-even ages.Calculator
- Income GapCompare your expected retirement expenses with your guaranteed income and see how much your savings need to cover.Calculator
- Claiming Social Security at 62, 67, or 70: How to Actually Decide7 min readArticle