Social Security is a lifeline for millions of Americans, but most people never hear the real strategies that can help them get every dollar they deserve.
Here are seven expert-backed secrets—straight from a government benefits expert—to help you make the smartest moves for your situation:
#1: Don’t Assume Full Retirement Age Is Best
Your Full Retirement Age (FRA) is 66 or 67, depending on your birth year. But waiting until age 70 can mean up to 32% more in your monthly benefit.
Every year you delay past FRA, your check grows by 8%. If you’re in good health and expect a longer retirement, waiting can add tens of thousands to your benefits.
#2: Know Your Break-Even Age
The break-even age is when the total benefits from waiting surpass what you’d get by claiming early.
If you expect to live beyond this age, delaying can mean a much bigger lifetime payout—sometimes over $100,000 more.
#3: Build a “Delay Fund”
Want to wait but need cash now? Use savings, severance, or even asset sales to cover expenses while you hold out for a bigger benefit.
Example: Delaying from 66 to 70 could boost your check from $1,000 to $1,320 a month.
#4: Watch Out for Taxes
Up to 85% of your Social Security can be taxed federally, and some states tax it too.
Consider tapping tax-free savings to lower your taxable income and reduce your Social Security tax bill.
#5: Don’t Miss Spousal or Divorce Benefits
Married? You may claim up to 50% of your spouse’s benefit.
Divorced after 10+ years and currently single? You can claim on your ex’s record—without affecting their benefits.
#6: You Can Undo a Claim
Claimed early and changed your mind? You have a one-time option to withdraw your application, pay back what you’ve received, and restart later for a higher benefit.
After FRA, you can suspend your benefit and let it grow until age 70.
#7: Your Work History Still Counts
Social Security uses your 35 highest-earning years. If you had low-earning years, working into your 60s can replace them and increase your check—sometimes by $50/month or more for each extra year.
Real Life Examples
Marge, 64, wanted to claim early but used her savings to wait until 70. She now receives $350 more each month than she would have at 62.
James, divorced after 12 years, claimed on his ex-wife’s record and increased his monthly benefit by 40%.
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This newsletter is for information only. Always double-check your options with a professional before making big decisions.
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