Ask Larry

Should I File And Suspend At Full Retirement Age?

I am a single man who will reach full retirement age next month and I called SS Admin to find out how I file and suspend. The agent said that I did not need to file at all until I was ready to take benefits and that my account would accumulated Delayed Retirement Credits until age 70. SSA Agent also said that SS would not start my benefits until I apply. Is this all correct? Look forward to your answer. David

Hi David,

Yes, it sounds like everything you were told is accurate. There is likely no significant advantage nor disadvantage to you filing and suspending at full retirement age (FRA). Delayed retirement credits would accumulate either way, so if you simply apply when you reach age 70, your monthly rate will be 32% higher than at FRA.

Best, Jerry

Category: 
Posted: 
Oct 18 2016 - 5:00pm
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