Core Viewpoint - The best age to start taking Social Security benefits is 62, according to finance expert Dave Ramsey, who encourages retirees to claim benefits as soon as possible to maximize their retirement income [1][2][6]. Summary by Sections Reasons for Early Claiming - Ramsey suggests that taking retirement benefits sooner rather than later is often more beneficial, as benefits cease upon death, making it prudent to utilize the funds while alive [3]. - Delaying benefits could result in lower lifetime benefits, especially if an individual dies at or before the average life expectancy [3]. Investment Strategy - Ramsey advocates for claiming benefits early and investing the funds, arguing that individuals can manage their investments more effectively than the government [4][6]. - This strategy allows retirees to potentially enhance their financial situation by leveraging the benefits for investment opportunities [4]. Considerations for Retirees - While delaying benefits can increase monthly payments, it may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those who need immediate income to avoid depleting retirement savings [7]. - Many retirees may find it necessary to start receiving Social Security checks at 62 to ensure financial stability without waiting until their late 60s or 70s [7].

Core Insights - Timing is crucial when claiming Social Security benefits, and the optimal time varies based on individual circumstances [1] Group 1: Claiming Timing - Claiming Social Security benefits earlier than necessary can lead to significant reductions in monthly payments, with a potential decrease of up to 30% if claimed at age 62 [3] - Delaying benefits until age 70 can increase monthly checks by up to 24% due to delayed retirement credits [3][4] Group 2: Financial Considerations - A significant portion of retirees, over 38 million or approximately 63% of adult recipients, rely on Social Security for at least half of their income [2] - The Social Security Administration (SSA) implements an earnings test that reduces benefits by $1 for every $2 earned above $24,480 in 2026, and $1 for every $3 earned above $65,160 in the year of reaching full retirement age [6] Group 3: Spousal Considerations - For married couples, the optimal strategy is to delay claiming the higher earner's benefit until it maximizes close to age 70, while the lower earner can claim benefits starting at age 62 if needed [7][8]

Core Insights - Social Security is projected to face a shortfall by 2033, potentially covering only 77% of scheduled benefits unless legislative action is taken [1][3] - Future retirees may receive about 75% of the benefits listed on their Social Security statements if no changes occur [2] Group 1: Benefit Reductions - Social Security benefits could be reduced by approximately 25% due to the anticipated shortfall in the trust fund [3] - Experts indicate that while benefits will not disappear entirely, they will be significantly lower, with an example of a potential check amounting to $2,310 instead of a higher expected amount [4] Group 2: Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) - The COLA for Social Security benefits is expected to rise by 2.8% in 2026, but this increase may not keep pace with inflation, particularly for essential expenses [4] - Inflation affecting retirees, especially in areas like healthcare and housing, tends to outstrip the COLA adjustments, which average only 2% to 2.5% [5] Group 3: Delaying Benefits - Delaying the filing for Social Security can significantly increase monthly payments, with an increase of about 8% per year for each year benefits are delayed up to age 70 [6]

Core Insights - The Social Security Administration distributes benefits to nearly 74 million individuals each month, with payment schedules primarily based on beneficiaries' birth dates [1][7]. Payment Schedule - Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments are issued at the start of each month, with adjustments made if the month begins on a weekend or holiday [3]. - In December, the payment schedule is as follows: - Dec. 1: SSI payments for qualified individuals [8] - Dec. 3: Retirement benefits for those who began receiving them before May 1997 [8] - Dec. 10: Retirement, spousal, and survivor benefits for those born between the 1st and 10th of any month [8] - Dec. 17: Benefits for individuals with birthdays between the 11th and 20th [8] - Dec. 24: Benefits for those with birthdays between the 21st and 31st [8] - Dec. 31: SSI payments for qualified individuals for January [8] Importance of Payment Timing - Understanding the payment schedule is crucial for Social Security beneficiaries, as they rely on fixed incomes to manage their budgets and financial obligations [4].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of not allowing social media trends to dictate the timing of retirement benefits, suggesting that informed decision-making is crucial for financial planning [1] Group 1 - Social media can create misleading narratives about investment strategies, particularly regarding retirement benefits [1] - The timing of claiming retirement benefits can significantly impact long-term financial health, and decisions should be based on personal circumstances rather than social media advice [1] - Financial experts recommend a thorough analysis of individual financial situations before making retirement benefit decisions [1]

Core Insights - The article discusses the realities of retirement for many seniors, highlighting that a significant number continue to work while claiming Social Security benefits due to financial necessity or personal choice [2]. Summary by Sections - **Current Social Security Work Rules**: As of 2025, individuals who have not reached their full retirement age (FRA) will lose $1 in benefits for every $2 earned above $23,400. This reduction is temporary, as benefits are recalculated at FRA to account for missed income [6][7]. - **Earnings Limits for Those Approaching FRA**: For individuals reaching FRA in 2025, the earnings limit is $62,160, where they will lose $1 in benefits for every $3 earned above this threshold until they reach FRA [8]. - **Upcoming Changes in 2026**: The article indicates that the rules regarding working while collecting Social Security benefits will change in 2026, allowing for more flexibility in earnings while still receiving benefits, although specific limits will still apply [4][6].

Core Insights - Social Security is a highly sensitive topic in American politics, with significant public opposition to changes in retirement age [1] - A recent Quinnipiac University poll indicates that 78% of adults oppose raising the full retirement age for Social Security benefits from 67 to 70, even if it means benefits would last longer [2][5] - The financial health of Social Security is a concern, with the trust fund surplus expected to deplete by 2034, leading to a potential 20% shortfall in revenue from payroll taxes [5] Public Sentiment - The Quinnipiac poll reveals deep anxiety regarding financial security in retirement, with 25% of respondents aged 50 to 64 and 26% of those 65 and older citing saving for retirement as their top concern [7][8] - A significant portion of respondents (22%) have reconsidered their retirement plans due to economic factors such as inflation and higher interest rates, with 32% of those aged 50 to 64 already delaying their retirement [9] Demographics of Respondents - The poll surveyed nearly 1,800 adults, with a balanced representation across political affiliations: 29% Democrats, 27% Republicans, and 29% independents [8]

Core Insights - Social Security spousal benefits can significantly enhance household finances during retirement, with an average monthly benefit of approximately $955 as of August 2025, which, while not sufficient alone, can substantially contribute when combined with a partner's retirement benefits [1]. Misconceptions and Eligibility - Misconception 1: Spousal benefits are available even if one has never worked, provided certain conditions are met, such as being married for at least one year or having a child with the spouse [4]. - Individuals can qualify for both retirement and spousal benefits, but the Social Security Administration pays the higher of the two benefits [5]. - The age at which one claims benefits is crucial, as full retirement age (FRA) is 67 for most workers, and claiming early can lead to significant reductions in benefits [7]. Claiming Benefits - To receive the full retirement or spousal benefit, one must wait until reaching FRA, with penalties for early claiming that can reduce benefits by up to 30% for retirement and up to 35% for spousal benefits if claimed at age 62 [7]. - Spousal benefits are available if the spousal benefit amount exceeds the retirement benefit one qualifies for, and ex-spouses may also qualify if the marriage lasted 10 years or more [8].

Sharon, just give us context here for a minute. Where does the Social Security program stand today in 2025, 90 years after it was started. Well, it's changing quite a bit.And what the Social Security Administration wants to do is make it more digital friendly. They're really trying to get more people, encourage more people not just to talk about Social Security, but to go on the website and check out what their earnings are, make sure that information is accurate, and have about 200 million people be digita ...