When you claim can change your retirement paycheck for life.
Social Security is one of the few sources of guaranteed, inflation-adjusted income most retirees will ever receive. But the age you claim—62, Full Retirement Age, or 70—can mean tens of thousands of dollars more (or less) over your lifetime, plus a bigger or smaller benefit for a surviving spouse.
~77%
Increase in your monthly benefit by waiting from age 62 to age 70 instead of claiming early.
8% / yr
Delayed retirement credits added to your benefit for every year you wait past Full Retirement Age, up to age 70.
~30%
Permanent reduction in your benefit if you claim at 62 instead of your Full Retirement Age (typically 67).
Why this matters: Your claiming age also locks in the survivor benefit your spouse may rely on later. The right timing strategy can turn Social Security into a stronger lifetime income foundation—and reduce how much your other savings have to do.
Sources: U.S. Social Security Administration (ssa.gov) — benefit reduction and delayed retirement credit schedules. Figures vary by birth year and Full Retirement Age.
Social Security Timing Calculator
When you claim Social Security affects how much you receive—and how long it lasts. Claiming at the wrong age can leave a gap in your retirement paycheck. Claiming strategically can help you close that gap and enjoy more income you can’t outlive.
Use this page to learn how timing your benefits at 62, Full Retirement Age (FRA), or 70 can maximize your Social Security and close your retirement income gap.
See How Timing Affects Your Social Security Income
See how your claiming age impacts your monthly check, total lifetime benefits, and survivor benefits — and how it fits into your overall retirement income plan.
Calculate Your Retirement Income Strategy →
Get Your Best Social Security Start Date
Every retiree’s situation is unique. That’s why we offer a complimentary Social Security timing analysis to help you decide when to start benefits based on your goals, health, and other income sources.
Fill out our secure Social Security Fact Finder to share a few basics. We’ll run the numbers and show you the trade‑offs between claiming early and waiting, so you can see how each option affects your retirement income gap.
Find My Best Social Security Start Date: https://my.advisorcontrols.com/jeanpierre1/ssgen#/
- Compare estimated benefits at 62, FRA, and 70
- See breakeven ages and total lifetime income impact
- Review spousal and survivor considerations
- Understand how Social Security fits into your retirement paycheck strategy
Important: This educational analysis is not affiliated with the Social Security Administration. There’s no obligation—just clear numbers and guidance to help you make a confident claiming decision.
Disclaimer: The material on this site is for general informational purposes only. It does not amend, modify, or supplement any insurance policy. Always consult the actual policy and a licensed insurance agent for details on terms, conditions, coverage, exclusions, and availability. Advertising for insurance products must be truthful and must not imply that the state or federal government endorses or guarantees any products or returns. Guarantees associated with insurance products are dependent on the issuing company’s financial strength and claims‑paying ability. Nothing on this site is intended as tax, legal, or investment advice.