The “best” age for taking your social security depends on health, income needs, and longevity expectations.

When deciding when to claim Social Security, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. The breakeven age is usually around 78 to 80, meaning if you live longer than that, delaying benefits generally pays off with higher lifetime income. Taxes also play a role, since Social Security may be taxable depending on your other sources of income. For married couples, coordinating when each spouse claims can make a big difference, helping to maximize overall household income and provide stronger survivor benefits.

Overview

• Earliest age: 62 (reduced benefits, up to ~30% less than full retirement age).
• Full Retirement Age (FRA): 66–67 depending on your birth year (you receive your full benefit).
• Latest age: 70 (delayed retirement credits increase your benefit ~8% per year after FRA).

Does Taking Your Social Security Early Make Sense (age 62–65)?

• You need income now to cover living expenses.
• Your health issues or family history suggest a shorter life expectancy.
• You want to stop working and use Social Security to bridge an income gap.

Does Waiting Make Sense (age 67–70)?

• You want to increase survivor benefits for a spouse.
• You’re in good health and expect to live well into your 80s or 90s.
• You want to maximize lifetime benefits (important if you’re the higher earner in a couple).
• You don’t need the income yet and can rely on your savings.