When it comes to applying for Social Security benefits, many people wonder what is the best age is to apply. Most individuals are uncertain whether to apply at the earliest possible age of 62 or wait a few more years to claim their benefits. In this article, we will explore the benefits of applying at age 62 and why it may be the best time for you to do so.
Why should you apply Social Security Benefits at age 62?
After working for years, you may feel tired and want to retire, but you may be uncertain about claiming your Social Security benefits due to various factors, such as lack of other income sources, your current financial situation, and the dependence of family members on you.
However, if you are financially stable and can manage your expenses in retirement, consider claiming your social security benefits at the earliest possible age, i.e. 62. Remember, no one knows what the future holds, and the decisions you make today will shape your tomorrow.
In my personal opinion, 62 is the ideal age to claim social security benefits. By this age, you may have endured unpleasant experiences like poor working conditions, a toxic work environment, and working extra hours to earn more. Thus, you might feel exhausted and ready for a well-deserved break. Claiming your benefits at 62 offers some of the following advantages:
- It allows you to retire earlier and enjoy a longer period of leisure
- It can reduce stress and provide a more relaxed pace of life
- You can focus on your health and wellness
- It allows for more years of travel and exploration
- Reduces exposure to inflation, which can erode purchasing power over time
- With a steady income stream from social security, you can take less investment risk
- If married, claiming benefits at 62 can potentially unlock spousal benefits
- With social security income, you will have a safety net during market volatility
- You have the luxury of time to travel and explore the world with your family and loved ones
- Now it’s time to fulfil all your incomplete dreams, the ones you once wished for
Drawbacks of claiming Social Security benefits at age 62
There are following some of the drawbacks of claiming Social Security benefits at age 62:
- Claiming Social Security benefits at age 62 will result in reduced benefits, compared to waiting until your full retirement age.
- Taking benefits at age 62 may result in a lower total payout over your lifetime.
- If your claim your Social Security benefits early, it may result in higher Medicare Part B premiums.
- Delaying your Social Security benefits allows your benefits to grow by about 8% each year until your full retirement age.
- If you claim your Social Security benefits at age 62 and pass away, your surviving spouse and dependent children may receive reduced survivor benefits.
Monthly Social Security benefits at Age 62 vs 67
It is important to note that the difference between age 62 and 67 can be significant. According to Social Security Administration, the maximum monthly benefit for a retired worker at age 62 is $2,710 while the maximum monthly benefit at age 67 is $2,710 for 2024. It may be noted that 67 is also full retirement age, while 62 is the earliest possible retirement age.
So, although there is a significant difference in Social Security monthly benefits between age 67 and 62, however, money does not always guarantee peace of mind, but happiness does. So, instead of wasting six more precious years of your life, its worth retiring at 62 and enjoying your golden years.
Moreover, if we compare age 62 with 67, you are five years younger and more agile than at 67, which allows you to even work part-time while taking Social Security benefit, without worrying about losing your benefits. However, considering the key differences between ages 62 and 67, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and financial situation to determine the best time to claim your Social Security benefits.
Another important factor to consider is your health status. If you are in good health, or have a chronic illness, serious health issues, or other health conditions that prevent you from working, it may impact your decision on when to claim your Social Security benefits.
FAQs
Q. Can you retire and receive Social Security benefits at age 62?
A. Yes, age 62 is earliest possible to claim your Social Security benefits. However, claiming your benefits at age 62 may result in reduced benefits.
Q. How much Social Security benefits be reduced if you retire at age 62?
A. If you retire at age 62 your benefits will be reduced by about 25% compared to waiting until your full retirement age i.e. 67.
Q. Will your Social Security benefits increase if you continue working past age 62?
A. Yes, if you continue working and delay receiving your benefits, your benefits will increase by about 8% for each year you wait, up to age 70.
Q. How can you apply for your Social Security benefits at age 62?
A. You can apply your Social Security benefits by going to Social Security Administration’s official website, by phone, or in person at a local Social Security Administration office.
Q. What document do you need to apply for your Social Security benefits?
A. You will need to provide documentation like your birth certificate, proof of address and proof of work history.
Conclusion
If you are financially stable and can cover your expenses, claiming your Social Security benefits at 62 can bring peace of mind and freedom to live life on your terms. You will be free from the constraints of a job, with no boss or supervisor to dictate your schedule or undervalue your efforts. However, before making any decision in said regard, you should always keep in mind all pros and cons of claiming Social Security at age 62.
If you have any further questions or need more clarification on anything related to Social Security, feel free to ask. You can leave your question or query in the comment section and I will respond as soon as I can.
Thanks for reading