Social Security and You
You have a number of filing options to consider
FIVE THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT SOCIAL SECURITY
- Eligibility is based on “credits.” Most people need 40 credits (about 10 years of work) to qualify for retirement benefits. Source: SSA — Credits
- Your claiming age can permanently change your monthly benefit. You can start as early as 62 (reduced benefit). Waiting beyond your full retirement age can increase benefits via Delayed Retirement Credits (up to age 70). Sources: SSA — Starting Early · SSA — Delayed Retirement Credits
- Working while collecting before Full Retirement Age can reduce checks (temporarily). If you claim before FRA and earn above the annual limit, Social Security may withhold some benefits under the earnings test. Source: SSA — Receiving Benefits While Working
- Spousal, divorced-spouse, and survivor benefits can be major planning levers. Spousal benefits can be up to 50% of the worker’s amount (depending on age). Divorced spouses generally need a 10-year marriage to qualify. Survivor benefits can be up to 100% at survivor full retirement age (rules apply). Sources: SSA — Spousal Benefit · SSA — Divorced Spouse (10 years) · SSA — Survivor Amounts
- Social Security benefits may be taxable. Depending on your “combined income,” up to 85% of benefits may be taxable at the federal level. Sources: IRS — Publication 915 · SSA — Taxes on Benefits FAQ
Social Security Is A Valuable Benefit
Learn how claiming decisions can impact your lifetime income.
Social Security provides guaranteed lifetime income.
Social Security retirement benefits are paid monthly and can last as long as you live. Source
- Benefits are also adjusted for inflation through annual cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs). SSA COLA · Fact Sheet
- Depending on earnings history, claiming age, and longevity, a married couple may receive $1 million or more in lifetime cumulative benefits—making Social Security an important retirement income foundation. Source
Don’t Leave Money On The Table
The right time to file depends on life expectancy, other income sources, and your assets. There are strategies that can help maximize your benefit.
We can help!
1) When Can I Take My Social Security Benefit?
You qualify to receive your full benefit when you reach your Full Retirement Age (FRA), which is based on your birth year:
| Birth Year | FRA |
|---|---|
| 1943–1954 | 66 |
| 1955 | 66 & 2 months |
| 1956 | 66 & 4 months |
| 1957 | 66 & 6 months |
| 1958 | 66 & 8 months |
| 1959 | 66 & 10 months |
| 1960 and later | 67 |
2) How Much Will I Receive?
Your Primary Insurance Amount (PIA) is based on your 35 highest-earning years (indexed). It’s what you receive if you claim at your FRA.
Claiming as early as 62 reduces your benefit permanently; delaying past FRA increases it about 8% per year up to age 70.
3) How Does Working Affect My Social Security?
After FRA, you can work and earn without reducing benefits. Before FRA, benefits may be temporarily withheld based on annual earnings limits.
4) What is a Spousal Benefit?
Spouses can claim based on a partner’s record (up to 50% at FRA), subject to eligibility rules. The working spouse must be receiving benefits.
5) What Will My Spouse Receive If I Die?
Widowed spouses may receive up to 100% of the decedent’s benefit. Reduced survivor benefits can start as early as age 60.
6) Are There Benefits for Divorced Spouses?
Yes — if the marriage lasted at least 10 years and the claimant is currently unmarried, they may qualify based on an ex-spouse’s record.
7) Will I Owe Taxes on Social Security?
Possibly. Up to 85% of benefits may be taxable depending on your provisional income (benefits + half your SS + other income).
8) How Do I Apply for Benefits?
Apply online at SSA.gov or by phone at 800-772-1213. Local offices can assist as available.
Regular Review
Your life will change — and your plan should evolve with it. In our regular plan reviews, we revisit your income needs, tax exposure, healthcare outlook, long-term care positioning, risk comfort, and legacy goals. We make adjustments proactively so your strategy reflects where you are now, not where you were five years ago.
You’ll always know what’s happening and why. Our support team is available to answer questions clearly, walk through changes, and keep every moving piece aligned. Ongoing review isn’t a “nice to have.” It’s how we help keep you protected, confident, and on track.
Have a question? Ask us anything — we’d love to help.
