Social Security timing
When to claim Social Security is one of the biggest choices you’ll make.
You can claim as early as 62 or wait as late as 70. The right age depends on your health, your spouse, your other income and how long the money needs to last.
Questions people bring me
- Should I take it at 62, or wait?
- How do spousal and survivor benefits work for us?
- Can I keep working and still collect?
- How does my claiming age change what my spouse gets later?
How I help
We look at your earnings record and your spouse’s, your health and family history, and the rest of your income. Then we compare claiming ages side by side, so you can see what each choice means for you both, not just this year but for the rest of your lives.
For couples, the timing of each benefit affects the other, and the survivor benefit can matter most of all. We plan for both of you.
What you leave with
- A side-by-side look at claiming at different ages
- A plan for spousal and survivor benefits
- How your claiming age fits with your savings and any pension
Common questions
Is it always best to wait until 70?
Not always. Waiting raises your monthly check, but health, family history, your spouse’s benefit and your other income all matter. That is what we work through together.
I was a minister and opted out of Social Security. Can you help?
Yes. Clergy have their own rules, and I spent years in ministry myself. We plan around what you do and don’t have, with your tax professional where needed.
What should I bring?
Your Social Security statement for you and your spouse, and anything you know about pensions or other income.
Other ways I can help
Retirement income
How your savings, pensions and benefits can become a steady monthly income.
Learn moreAnnuities and insurance
What they are, when they fit and when they don’t, and how I’m paid on them.
Learn moreInvestments and risk
A mix that matches how much up and down you can live with.
Learn moreBudget and cash flow
Where the money comes from, where it goes, and what you’d like to change.
Learn more
Complimentary checklist
13 questions to answer before you retire
Social Security timing, pensions, which accounts to draw from first, health costs and who handles things if you can’t. The questions Jay would want you to have thought through, in plain words.
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Ready to turn over a new leaf?
Start with a conversation. It’s complimentary, it’s unhurried, and you’ll leave knowing whether a plan makes sense for you.
CFP® professional · No account minimum · Fees explained before you decide