When Should You Take Social Security?
Claiming early means smaller checks for longer. Waiting means bigger checks for fewer years. See which pays you more. Numbers update instantly — no submit button needed.
Your monthly benefit at 67
$2,000/month
100% of your PIA · lifetime $504K
Claim at 62
—
/month
Lifetime: —
Claim at FRA (67)
$2,000
/month
Lifetime: $504K
Claim at 70
$2,480
/month
Lifetime: $536K
If you live to 88, claiming at 70 pays about $536K over your lifetime — about $99K more than claiming at 62. Waiting starts to pay off if you live past about age 81.
Cumulative lifetime benefits by age
Breakeven ages: 62 vs FRA at age 79 · 62 vs 70 at age 81
Things to consider
- Working while claiming before full retirement age can temporarily withhold benefits if earnings exceed the annual limit (check ssa.gov for the current limit).
- Your health, other savings, and need for income now may matter more than the math.
- Up to 85% of benefits can be taxable depending on your other income.
- Medicare enrollment at 65 is separate from claiming Social Security.
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This calculator provides simplified estimates for educational purposes only and is not financial, tax, or legal advice. It does not account for every Social Security rule (such as divorced-spouse benefits, the earnings test, or government pension offsets). Confirm your benefits at ssa.gov and consult a qualified professional before making a claiming decision.