It’s tempting to assume that your retirement date and your first Social Security check will arrive at the same time. But for many retirees, that’s not how it works out. According to a MassMutual survey, the average retirement age in 2024 was 62, (1) while most Americans don’t start claiming Social Security until age 65, according to AARP. (2) That leaves a gap of roughly three years where retirees have to fund their lifestyle entirely from their own savings. Must Read If you’re among those planning to r ...