RETIREMENT PLANNING TOOL

When Should You Claim Social Security?

See How Much the Timing Decision Is Worth.

For most people, Social Security will be one of the largest sources of retirement income they ever receive — yet the claiming decision is often made without fully understanding what's at stake. Claiming at 62 versus waiting until 70 can mean a difference of hundreds of dollars every single month, for the rest of your life. This calculator lets you compare all three major claiming ages side by side so you can see what that decision actually means in dollars.

HOW TO USE THIS TOOL

Enter your estimated monthly benefit at your full retirement age — you can find this on your Social Security statement at ssa.gov

Select your full retirement age (66 or 67 depending on your birth year)

Review the estimated monthly benefit at each claiming age — 62, full retirement age, and 70

Use the results as a starting point for a broader conversation about income sequencing and retirement timing

Claim at 62 $0
Claim at Full Retirement Age $0
Claim at 70 $0
This calculator is for educational purposes only and is not financial, tax, investment, retirement, or Social Security advice. Results are simplified estimates and should be reviewed with a qualified financial professional.

Information and interactive calculators are made available to you as self-help tools for your independent use and are not intended to provide investment, tax, or legal advice. We cannot and do not guarantee their applicability or accuracy in regards to your individual circumstances. All examples are hypothetical and are for illustrative purposes. We encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding all personal finance issues.

Not Sure Which Claiming Age Makes Sense for You?

Social Security timing is one of the most consequential decisions in retirement planning — and it's permanent. If you'd like to think through your options with someone who does this every day, we're glad to help.