Latest News
Early Social Security benefits not usually in one’s best interest
A majority of those filing for Social Security claim benefits before full retirement age. This occurs despite a plethora of research noting that it pays to wait, to as long as age 70 if possible. Steve Vernon cites the few instances where it may make sense to claim as early as age 62 or before full retirement age (now 66 or 67 depending on birth year). They include:
- You’re truly financially strapped and have no reasonable alternative to make ends meet
- You’re single and have received a diagnosis of a life-shortening disease or have smoked for most of your life
- You’re the primary wage-earner of a married couple who receives a diagnosis of a life-shortening disease or has smoked for most of your life, and you have taken steps to provide for your spouse without needing the enhanced survivor benefits that result from delaying Social Security benefits
- You’re so wealthy it doesn’t really matter how much your Social Security benefits are (i.e. Bill Gates doesn’t need to optimize benefits)
Read Vernon’s full piece from Forbes.com here.
The AMAC Foundation offers a free-to-the-public advisory service to all folks ageing into–or already in–Social Security. This service provides guidance in understanding the complexities of Social Security and the myriad rules and regulations associated with the process for claiming benefits, with NSSA-Certified Social Security Advisors available via email or telephone to discuss options. Learn more about this service via the Foundation’s website.