I’m overwhelmed by conflicting advice on when to claim Social Security. Should I take it early at 62, wait for full retirement age, or delay until 70?

Question

Medicare Melanie · Accepted Answer

When considering taking social security well before full retirement age, keep in mind that social security (SS) will reduce $1 for every $2 you earn above a certain dollar amount. If you are under full retirement age for the entire year, the earnings limit for 2025 is $23,400. If you are reaching full retirement age in 2025, the limit is $62,160, but this only applies until the month you reach full retirement age.

In addition, if you meet the income guidelines above, you may not have employment provided health insurance and be dependent on coverage through the health insurance marketplace, which is based on your income. When you take social security, that is more income you will have to report on your application, making your monthly premium even higher. This is because social security benefits, both taxable and non-taxable, are considered income when determining eligibility for subsidies and premium tax credits through the Health Insurance Marketplace. This includes social security retirement, disability (SSDI), and survivor benefits. When calculating your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI)

Gary Church · Answer

When it comes to signing up for your Social Security retirement, the decision of whether to start early or at age 70 is up to you. Do you plan to continue working? How is your health? Can you afford to wait until age 70? The situation is based on your current financial situation.

Answered by Gary Church on December 17, 2025

Broker Licensed in Ca, AZ, NV & TX

Answered by Gary Church Medicare Insurance Agent

Steve and Sue Brauer · Answer

So the question is, someone is overwhelmed and confused about when to claim Social Security benefits. Should they take it at 62? Should they wait till retirement at 67 or delay it to 70? There's no right answer or wrong answer to that. If you have a financial advisor, that would be the person I would lean on. Typical questions that people figure out if it works for them are, what am I going to draw now? What does that look like? How bad do I need the money? Should I wait till 67? What does that look like? Or can I wait till 70? You get a pretty good bump, typically about a $400 a month bump or more if you wait till 70. How long do you expect to live? If you have long living genes, maybe you want to wait till 70. So it's really a personal question and one that should be looked at by a financial advisor.

Lt Col Tim Brown · Answer

I'm not a CPA so I would start by saying, talk to your tax advisor on the when. Me personally, I'm still working and going to wait to 66 and 10 months so I can collect social security, work and not get penalized for making "too much". Hope that helps.

Answered by Lt Col Tim Brown on May 12, 2025

Broker Licensed in TN, AL, CO & 10 other states

Answered by Lt Col Tim Brown Medicare Insurance Agent

William Lawler · Answer

No need to stress out over when to start collecting your social security. Ask yourself one question: Do I need the money?
If you don`t, wait to collect. If you do, start collecting as soon as you can. We never know what tomorrow brings.

Bill Wheeler · Answer

It depends on your need and financial health at 62.  But do understand, it will give a lower benefit than waiting till 70.

Tony Capraro III · Answer

Medicare agents have a question about Social Security. I'm overwhelmed by conflicting advice and want to claim Social Security. I imagine that I should take it early at 62, wait for full retirement age, or delay until later.

Amazing question! I wish people took more time to make sure they're getting the maximum from Social Security. Regardless of what you hear from other people about when you should take it, here at my State Farm agency on Kelly Street in Manchester, New Hampshire, we use a program called Money Guide Program.

So we put all the factors into Money Guide Pro. Is it just you getting Social Security? Is it you and a spouse? Should we be looking at different ages for each of you to take it? This program will actually show you how to maximize Social Security as opposed to taking an uneducated guess.

This tells you in black and white how you and your spouse will max out Social Security. I'll be glad to help you with that. I help clients with it every day. Best of luck!

Steven Lovell · Answer

There are a lot of factors that determine whether you should take social security early or try and wait to full retirement age or to age 70. This really is a conversation you should have with a Retirement Planner such as myself. We can help run a social security optimization for you. Once you turn on social security, it will stay that amount for the rest of your life and will never increase. So the longer you can hold out, the greater that check will be. II'd be happy show you that.

Answered by Steven Lovell on May 10, 2025

Broker Licensed in GA, AL, CA & 11 other states

Answered by Steven Lovell Medicare Insurance Agent

Jacqueline Proffit · Answer

Hi! IT can be quite overwhelming. I personally recommend to wait until atleast 67. If you want income at 62, you can use your IRA or 401K to provide that income from 62-67 and then stop it. It depends on what your needs are. I think it will be clear what you should do once you decide what are your monthly expenses and where can that come from. I am a federally license Financial Advisor, we can figure a plan together that fits your life so no information is conflicting it just pertains to you and your goals.

Answered by Jacqueline Proffit on September 9, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AR, CA & 15 other states

Answered by Jacqueline Proffit Medicare Insurance Agent

Misty Bolt · Answer

The decision of when to start claiming Social Security is a personal one, but generally, waiting until your full retirement age (currently 67) or even delaying until age 70 can lead to a larger monthly benefit. However, early claiming at 62 results in a smaller, but potentially long-term, benefit. 
Here's a breakdown to help you decide:
1. Full Retirement Age (67):
Benefit:
This is your "baseline" benefit, the full amount you're entitled to based on your work history.
Recommendation:
This is a good starting point to consider, as it balances potential lifetime income with a reasonable level of monthly payments. 
2. Delaying to 70:
Benefit:
You'll receive "delayed retirement credits," increasing your monthly benefit by about 8% per year, for each year you wait beyond your full retirement age.
Recommendation:
This option is best for those who believe they will live a long time and want the highest possible monthly benefit in the long run. 
3. Claiming Early at 62:
Benefit:
You'll receive a reduced monthly benefit, but you'll start receiving payments sooner. 
Recommendation:
This might be a good option if you need the money sooner for immediate financial needs, if your health is a concern, or if you think you'll have a shorter life expectancy. 
Factors to consider:
Your life expectancy: If you anticipate a longer life, delaying can be advantageous. 
Your current financial situation: Do you need the money now or are you comfortable waiting? 
Your health: If you have health concerns, claiming early might make sense. 
Other retirement assets: If you have other retirement savings, you may be able to delay Social Security for a larger monthly benefit. 
Your work history: The amount of your Social Security benefit is based on your earnings history. 
In short:
Delaying to 70: The highest potential monthly benefit, but you'll receive it for fewer years.
Full Retirement Age (67): A good balance between a reasonable monthly benefit and lifetime income.
Claiming at 62: A smaller m

Kelsey Hentzen · Answer

The earlier you take your social security the lower the amount you will receive. Taking social security depends on your current situation. Are you still working? What is your tax bracket? Often times you can ask your Medicare Agent if they know anyone willing to do a retirement assessment. This is very helpful when you are at retirement age.

Answered by Kelsey Hentzen on September 22, 2025

Broker Licensed in KS & MO

Answered by Kelsey Hentzen Medicare Insurance Agent

Don Hudson · Answer

Deciding on when to take Social Security requires a few important decisions. The 1st or 2nd being, can i financially afford to retire and if I retire at age 62, can I afford my medical insurance.

Mark Cunningham · Answer

Deciding when to file for Social Security is an important and highly personal choice. It's essential to consider your unique financial circumstances and evaluate whether filing now or waiting would be most beneficial. There are helpful tools and applications available to guide you through this process, but consulting with a financial specialist can provide valuable insights tailored to your situation. I recommend meeting with a qualified professional to discuss your options and determine what’s best for your future. Feel free to reach out to your financial advisor or contact me for a personalized consultation as I am an RSSA (Registered Social Security Analyst). Remember, this is a significant life decision that deserves careful thought and planning.

Answered by Mark Cunningham on February 2, 2026

Agent Licensed in CO, FL, GA & NE, VA, WI & WY

Answered by Mark Cunningham Medicare Insurance Agent

Esther Miller · Answer

I am a Medicare Insurance agent specialist, not a financial advisor. Your best advise would come from speaking directly to Social Security or your own licensed financial advisor who can tell you the pros and cons of when to start collecting your Social Security.

Answered by Esther Miller on June 16, 2025

Agent Licensed in WA

Answered by Esther Miller Medicare Insurance Agent

Bubi Gorgevich · Answer

Social Security Retirement is best taken at your full retirement age in order to maximize your income and to permit a higher annual income if still working. If earnings and the amount of income are not the highest priority, people retire early.

Answered by Bubi Gorgevich on October 1, 2025

Broker Licensed in SC, AZ, CA & 7 other states

Answered by Bubi Gorgevich Medicare Insurance Agent

Anthony Castelluccio · Answer

Most people try to wait until full retirement age to collect their social security. There are certain circumstances that would sway me to take it earlier than full retirement age. If I really need the money to live or to help cover the essentials, then I'm starting earlier. The other reason would be if my health is not the best and I know that most likely I will not live past 80, then I would start collecting social security sooner than later.

Answered by Anthony Castelluccio on May 10, 2025

Agent Licensed in PA, DE, MD, NJ & VA

Answered by Anthony Castelluccio Medicare Insurance Agent

Nathan Danovski · Answer

Totally understandable—deciding when to claim Social Security can feel like navigating a maze, especially with so much conflicting advice. Here’s the gist: claiming at 62 gets you the earliest benefits but at a reduced monthly amount (about 25-30% less than if you wait until full retirement age). Waiting until your full retirement age (usually 66-67) means you get your “full” benefit, while delaying until 70 increases your monthly check by about 8% each year after full retirement age, giving you the biggest monthly payout. The best choice depends on your health, financial needs, work plans, and life expectancy. If you need the money early or have health concerns, claiming sooner might make sense. But if you can afford to wait and expect to live into your 80s or beyond, delaying can significantly boost your income. Want, I can help you crunch some numbers based on your specific situation?

Answered by Nathan Danovski on August 29, 2025

Broker Licensed in NC, GA, SC & TN, VA, WV & WY

Answered by Nathan Danovski Medicare Insurance Agent

Andrew Bennett · Answer

Without knowing your specific situation my general advice is to wait as long as you financially can.  No matter when you start your Medicare your annual cost of living increase is the same percentage as every one else.  So if you start at age 62 and your payment is $1000 and 3% increase the next year is $30 so your second year you have $1030 coming in.  Let's say you wait till your 70.  Now your payment is $1700 a month (this is just made up numbers as an example).  Now that 3% increase is $51 instead of 30.   Your second year monthly payment is $1751.  

It sounds like small potatoes, but over time it really adds up.  IF you cannot wait because of your financial circumstance then you just can't.  It's that simple.  However, if you have the ability, the financial ability to wait, I generally recommend you wait.

Patrick Bullock · Answer

Unfortunately, there is no single answer that is right for everyone. Each persons' individual situation will dictate when is the best time to begin your Social Security. Factors such as health, bills, retirement funds, employment etc. will weigh in the decision. What is best for one, may not be best for another.

Answered by Patrick Bullock on October 20, 2025

Broker Licensed in PA, DE, FL, NJ & VA

Answered by Patrick Bullock Medicare Insurance Agent

DeVin LeMay · Answer

The best time to claim Social Security depends on your health, financial needs, and life expectancy. Taking it early gives smaller but longer payments, while delaying increases your monthly benefit. If you can afford to wait, delaying often maximizes lifetime income.

Answered by DeVin LeMay on November 3, 2025

Agent Licensed in MA

Answered by DeVin LeMay Medicare Insurance Agent

Kirk Doris · Answer

Many struggle with this question as they approach eligibility for social security retirement.  The best advise is to consult your trusted financial advisor.  Everyone's situation is different.

Austin Boyd · Answer

Yes it can be! I would recommend speaking with your accountant. They’ll be able to advise you on when the best time will be.

Tammy Champlin · Answer

It is usually the Beneficiary choice. Some like to draw at 62 and some choose to work and wait until full retirement.

Steven Bleicher · Answer

It’s impossible for another to answer that question. Here’s why: We all are genetically programmed to become a healthy adult or not. You can assist in maintaining good health with exercise, 
a lack of stress and resisting smoking. The other side of the coin is: Medicare has established that “FRA” aka your Full Retirement Age is around the age of 67. This is when you receive your maximum entitlement benefits. For every year you take the money before that age, you lose 8%. And contrary to that, the longer you hold off from taking it, you get 8% more!  So it can be decided upon how much you  truly need that $$ or not? However, if you wait too long, if you perish in a car accident, then that $$ is lost! That’s why you need to see my 1st sentence above.

Diana Garner · Answer

My question to you would be, "Would you rather draw your benefit longer or would you rather draw a larger amount?"

Drawing early at 62 may allow you to draw your benefit longer than if you waited until 70 to start drawing it, but the amount would be lower.  If you delay drawing until age 70, your monthly benefit payment will be higher.

Kristen Skinner · Answer

This is something I really can not help you with since this has nothing to do with Medicare. You should call Social Security or call a financial advisor.

Leslie Kaz · Answer

You should check with your CPA or a Social Security Advisor.  A licensed Medicare agent can only share their opinion but is outside of our licensure scope.

Donald Elliott · Answer

This has always been a tough question. The amount of money received over time is about the same regardless of when you begin payments. For me, the decision was easy because I was still working and simply waited until full retirement age to avoid excess taxes. So this is not an issue that has a good general answer. One thing I do know that applies to everyone is that if you pass away before you begin payments you will get nothing at all. Talk to your tax professional about tax implications before making a decision.

Answered by Donald Elliott on December 18, 2025

Broker Licensed in AL, GA & MS

Answered by Donald Elliott Medicare Insurance Agent

Dina Todd · Answer

Generally speaking, the later you wait to start collecting social security, the more your monthly payments will be. The only thing you should factor in to change when you start collecting social security is your health status.

Answered by Dina Todd on June 29, 2025

Broker Licensed in NC

Answered by Dina Todd Medicare Insurance Agent

Joyce Joneschiet · Answer

I think it depends on your needs at the time. If you can wait until your full retirement date, I would advise doing that, as you will get a higher benefit. Otherwise, if you continue working after 62, Social Security can lower your benefit depending on how much your income is. Ultimately, waiting until 70 gets you the highest benefit. If you can wait comfortably, I would definitely advise waiting as long as possible.

Answered by Joyce Joneschiet on July 2, 2025

Broker Licensed in WA, AZ, CA & 7 other states

Answered by Joyce Joneschiet Medicare Insurance Agent

Fred Manas · Answer

The decision of when to start collecting Social Security benefits, whether at 62, full retirement age (around 67), or 70, involves weighing the benefits of higher lifetime income against the immediate need for income. Claiming early at 62 will result in a reduced, but guaranteed, monthly payment for a longer period, while delaying until 70 will yield a larger monthly payment for a shorter period. Ultimately, the best strategy depends on individual circumstances and priorities. 
Elaboration:
Early Claiming (Age 62):
.
Taking benefits at 62 means you'll receive a reduced benefit, but you'll also receive it for potentially longer if you live a long life. This can be beneficial if you have immediate financial needs or a shorter life expectancy. 
Full Retirement Age (Around 67):
.
This is the age at which you're entitled to the full, unreduced retirement benefit based on your earnings record. 
Delayed Claiming (Age 70):
.
Delaying until 70 will result in the highest possible monthly benefit due to delayed retirement credits, but you'll also receive it for a shorter period. 
Factors to Consider:
Life Expectancy:
.
If you believe you'll live longer than average, delaying your claim until age 70 may be more advantageous due to the higher monthly benefit. 
Health:
.
If you have health issues or expect a shorter life expectancy, claiming early might be preferable. 
Financial Needs:
If you have immediate financial needs or need income to cover expenses, claiming early might be necessary. 
Other Retirement Assets:
If you have sufficient investments or other retirement savings, you may be able to delay claiming Social Security and let your investments grow. 
Tax Implications: 
Social Security benefits are subject to federal income tax, and the amount of tax you pay can vary based on your other income. 
Medicare: 
Remember that Medicare eligibility begins at age 65, so if you claim Social Security early, you'll need to cover health insurance costs until then.

Vachik Chakhbazian · Answer

Taking it early at 62 results in a reduced monthly payment, while waiting until 70 guarantees the highest possible monthly payout. The best approach depends on individual circumstances, including health, financial situation, and life expectancy

Answered by Vachik Chakhbazian on May 18, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA, AL, AR & 22 other states

Answered by Vachik Chakhbazian Medicare Insurance Agent

Gary Henderson · Answer

This is not a Medicare question. Sorry, you should talk with financial advisor determining advice in this regard. There are a number of rules you need to understand

Mary Brown · Answer

It really depends on your health, financial needs, work status, and long-term goals. Taking Social Security at 62 gives you smaller monthly checks for life, while waiting until full retirement age or even age 70 increases your monthly benefit. Many people benefit from speaking with a financial professional to determine the best strategy based on their personal situation and retirement income needs.

Answered by Mary Brown on May 19, 2026

Broker Licensed in NJ, DE, FL & NC, OH, PA & TX

Answered by Mary Brown Medicare Insurance Agent

Andrew Kramer · Answer

Only a certified financial planner can give you correct advice as to when to claim your Social Security benefits, based on your finances. Do not take advice from family or friends!. You can also look up various options on the Social Security website, or call them.

Answered by Andrew Kramer on November 29, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL

Answered by Andrew Kramer Medicare Insurance Agent

Marcie Barnes · Answer

When you decide to take your social security benefits is a personal decision.  I have watched some good YouTube videos that advise one thing or another.

I personally would take it as early as possible.  Since SSI provides regular Cost Of Living Raises, by the time you reach age 70 you will be collecting the "full" amount you would have gotten.

Suzanne Lamperti · Answer

That depends on your personal financial well-being. Anything claimed before full retirement age is a permanent cut in benefits. It doesn't go up at full retirement age.

Jack Mayer · Answer

That is a question only you can answer. Take time to evaluate your decisions because if you wait you will earn more and if you don't perhaps its best if you are struggling financially.

Karen Ansell · Answer

I can understand why you think you are getting conflicting advise. there are multiple factors why to draw early or wait. And they all depend on you.
1. are you continuing to work. if so this can effect the amount you will draw or may put you in a higher tax bracket.
2. Look at your overall financial situation.
3. If married can effect your spouses benefits when you pass away.
4. if you are in poor health or may have a shorter than average life expectancy it may be better to draw early.
and more...
Taking Social Security at 62 instead of waiting to full retirement for example 67 can reduce your monthly benefit by 30%.

Break-Even Age:
The break-even age is when the cumulative benefits received from claiming at full retirement age (or later) surpass the cumulative benefits received from claiming at 62. For most people, this is around age 78 or later.

I advise to speak to  a financial advisor can help you assess your specific situation and make an informed decision.

Antonio Rodriguez · Answer

you’re not alone. A lot of people feel overwhelmed by all the conflicting advice about Social Security.

In general:

• Taking it at 62 means you get payments sooner, but they’re permanently reduced.
• Waiting until your full retirement age gives you your full benefit amount.
• Delaying until 70 increases your benefit each year you wait — which can mean significantly higher monthly income for life.

The “right” choice really depends on your health, income needs, work plans, and whether you’re married.

Julie Thompson · Answer

When to take Social Security will depend on each individuals situation. You may need to consult your financial advisor for that. Some Medicare agents are not equipped to help with this decision if they do not know your financial situation.

Answered by Julie Thompson on November 18, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA, AZ, KY, NV & TN

Answered by Julie Thompson Medicare Insurance Agent

Brent Mowery · Answer

You will receive varied advice on taking your Social Security benefits. It is a decision based on your needs and desires.

Life always costs more than you plan for and it is common to outlive your money. With modest inflation, you have to consider your living expenses will increase as you age 

Your savings, investments and debt are all factors to consider. What are a few of your goals for your retirement years? Factor these things in your decision making.

Gary Haft · Answer

It all depends on your working status. If you are still working, even in a tight budget, if you take your Social Security early at age 62, you will get approximately 25%-30% less and for the rest of your life with the lower amount AND you will have to pay back money if you earn over the threshold working prior to your full retirement age (FRA). Once you make it to your FRA, then you can earn as much as you want. If you delay to age 70, for each full year above your FRA (Let's assume your FRA is 67), then you will get an additional 8% per year for three years, that's 24% more income. It is up to you. I personally waited to age 70 to get 32% more as my FRA was age 66.

Answered by Gary Haft on May 26, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL, AL, DC & 9 other states

Answered by Gary Haft Medicare Insurance Agent

Glenn Alterman · Answer

Every one is different so only you can decide. Certainly there is much lower amount at 62 then at 70’

Mark Murphy · Answer

This is a question for your accountant or tax preparer.  We, as insurance agents, aren't allowed to give financial advice.

William Murray · Answer

There's no simple answer.
Partly, it depends on your perception of your longevity, family lengths of life, quality of health and the things you're afraid might happen to you. You have to be comfortable with your decision.
Partly, it depends on if you continue to work and earn a good taxable wage that may increase your benefit over time.
Mathematically, calculate how many years it may take you after age 70 to break even.
There is calculator help on ssa.gov. Sign up to access the site.

Bruce Resnick · Answer

There is NO fixed rule or best standard answer for this. There are several other relevant financial considerations that cold make your start date swing one way or the other. 
However, unless you absolutely NEED that income at 62,I personally recommend waiting for FRA. If you start at 62, you chop 8% off each payment for each year elapsed between 62 and FRA for the rest of your life. That could add up to substantial $$

Claudia Englert · Answer

It depends on if you’re still working & in fairly good health. If so, I’d wait to draw social security as you get a higher payment. If you’re a woman divorcee and was married for 10 years or more, you can draw on your ex-husband’s social security if it’s enough income & then take yours at age 70.

Answered by Claudia Englert on November 14, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH

Answered by Claudia Englert Medicare Insurance Agent

Nora Alishahi · Answer

You should look at your personal situation. If you don't need to claim SS sooner is better to claim it as late as possible to increase the amount you receive. 
If because of health issues or any other circumstance, including budget you need that money you may have to claim it sooner.

Jose Felix Arevalo · Answer

Claiming Social Security depends on your personal situation. If you start at 62, your benefit is permanently reduced. At Full Retirement Age (around 66–67) you receive 100% of your benefit. If you delay until 70, your benefit increases about 8% per year, giving you the highest monthly payment.
The best choice depends on factors like your health, income needs, other retirement savings, and whether you’re married. A personalized review can help determine which option fits your retirement goals best.

Robert Evans · Answer

That is truly a personal matter one I’m not qualified to answer. You may want to consult a Financial Advisor

Lyle Affleck · Answer

This is a question whose answer is different for every individual and is something better suited to ask a trusted financial advisor; not an insurance agent. In general, however, the longer an individual waits to collect their Social Security benefits, the higher the monthly payout becomes.

Answered by Lyle Affleck on July 28, 2025

Agent Licensed in UT, CO, FL & 8 other states

Answered by Lyle Affleck Medicare Insurance Agent

Tonya White · Answer

I can understand your frustration. There is not a straightline answer to your question, and the Social Security Administration does not help you strategize on the best time to take Social Security but there are others, such as myself, who are financial advisors and conduct a Social Security Analysis for clients to help determine the best time to take it and there are many factors. Some of the factors that come into play are... are you single, married, ever been married, divorced, if divorced - how many years of marriage and since divorce, are you widowed, who was/is the primary breadwinner, what do each of your statement look like, are there dependent children, etc etc etc.

Answered by Tonya White on October 26, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA, MA, MI & 5 other states

Answered by Tonya White Medicare Insurance Agent

Sean Macbean · Answer

There is an entire process that will determine maximizing your social security.

However, EVERYONE is different with different requirements. The simple rule of thumb is:

A. Don't take it, if you don't need it, as you will be giving up 30% at 62 years old. 

B. If you really need it to make ends meet, take it - it's your money. 

C. Some people who don't need it do take it and invest it. This is not recommended unless your are getting a "guaranteed" return of 5% or greater. 

Do not invest in ANYTHING tied to the S&P 500, you do not have time to recover any lost money's. If you lose 50% you must earn 100% to break even - not going to happen.

Douglas Carney · Answer

I often hear clients grapple with Social Security timing, and the best choice depends on your health, finances, and goals. Claiming at 62 gives you immediate income but reduces your monthly benefit by up to 30% for life. Great, if you need cash now or have health concerns. Waiting until full retirement age (67 for those born in 1960 or later) secures your full benefit, balancing income and longevity. Delaying until 70 boosts your benefit by 8% annually (up to 24% more), ideal if you’re healthy, can afford to wait, and want maximum lifetime payouts. Consider your savings, work status, and life expectancy: if you’re short on funds, 62 may be necessary; if you’re secure, delaying pays off.

Answered by Douglas Carney on May 10, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, GA, NC, OK & TX

Answered by Douglas Carney Medicare Insurance Agent

Heather Currier · Answer

When to claim Social Security Administration benefits is one of the most important financial decisions a senior can make, and the right choice depends on your health, income needs, and long-term goals. Here’s a clear way to think about the three main options:
1. Claim at 62 (earliest option)
	•	You can start as early as age 62, but your benefit will be permanently reduced (up to about 25–30% less than full retirement age).
•	This may make sense if:
•	You need the income now
•	You have health concerns or shorter life expectancy
•	You’re no longer working and don’t have other retirement income
2. Claim at Full Retirement Age (66–67 for most people today)•	This is when you receive 100% of your earned benefit.
	•	Good option if:
	•	You want a balanced approach
	•	You are still working but nearing retirement
	•	You don’t need benefits early, but don’t want to wait until 70
 
     3. Delay until 70
	•	Your benefit grows about 8% per year after full retirement age until age 70.
	•	This results in the highest monthly check for life.
	•	Often best if:
	•	You’re in good health
	•	Longevity runs in your family
	•	You have other income to live on now
	•	You want the highest survivor benefit for a spouse
Simple rule of thumb
-Need income now → consider 62
-Want full benefit → full retirement age
-Want the biggest lifetime payout → 70
There isn’t one answer that fits everyone, but making the decision with a clear understanding of your situation can help you feel confident instead of overwhelmed. Please feel free to reach out if you have any further questions! 
Heather Currier Licensed Agent

Irma Lopez · Answer

The answer depends on your special circumstance. If you don’t need the funds and can wait until you’re 70 years old then wait to obtain the maximum amount available to you.

If you decide to receive your Social Security benefits early at age 62 you have to keep in mind that you will only be able to earn $24,000 for the year in wages so that you don’t get penalized from your Social Security benefits.

The answer depends on your own circumstances.

Adriana De la Cruz · Answer

That's a really common question, and it's definitely a big decision! Generally, if you claim early at 62, your monthly payments will be lower, but you'll receive them for a longer period. Waiting until your full retirement age means you'll get your standard benefit amount. If you delay until 70, your payments will be even higher. The best choice really depends on your individual circumstances, like your health, financial needs, and when you expect to retire.

Answered by Adriana De la Cruz on May 23, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, AZ, CA & NM

Answered by Adriana De la Cruz Medicare Insurance Agent

Trevor Nahodil · Answer

Well, it truly depends on the difference in what you will receive verse the time it takes to wait for example in my opinion. let's say at 62 you get 1500 now times 12 months is 18k per year now at 65 Medicare part b premium will also come out of that let's just say it would be an even 225 it's really 202.90 this year. 18k times 3 years plus 1275 times 60 months till you hit 70 that's roughly 130k in those 8 years vs 70 it could be 2200 let's say and you can also make whatever you not it doesn't hurt you. Waiting until 70 however those 5 years you may have to pay part b premium every month if your employer doesn't offer creditable coverage. In my opinion 130k your make starting at 62 divided by the extra 700 by waiting until 70 that is equal to almost 15 years of the extra

Answered by Trevor Nahodil on March 30, 2026

Broker Licensed in PA

Answered by Trevor Nahodil Medicare Insurance Agent

Veda Prabha Srinivas · Answer

Hello, claiming social security depends on personal and family needs. 62 is the eligibility age but compensation will be minimum. later you start higher the compensation. If you have other income source, it's always better to start later.

Answered by Veda Prabha Srinivas on February 23, 2026

Broker Licensed in CA

Answered by Veda Prabha Srinivas Medicare Insurance Agent

I’m overwhelmed by conflicting advice on when to claim Social Security. Should I take it early at 62, wait for full retirement age, or delay until 70?

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I’m overwhelmed by conflicting advice on when to claim Social Security. Should I take it early at 62, wait for full retirement age, or delay until 70?

Agents: Share Your Expertise

Seniors: Ask a Question of Your Own

Related Questions

Agent Locator

Medicare Agents HubA non-government resource website

Medicare Agents Hub
A non-government resource website