Ask Larry

What Is Your Best Advice For Us?

I turned 66 feb 26th 2021. I can file SS in April at 66 and 2 months and receive $2,358. Per month. If I wait til I’m 70, I can receive $3,151. My wife turned 59 on February 25, 2021 and is projected to receive $ 2,100 at 67. What is your best advice for us?

Hi. Everyone's circumstances are unique, so there's no 'one size fits all' best strategy for when a person should start collecting their Social Security benefits. Our software (https://maximizemysocialsecurity.com/purchase) is designed to analyze all of the variables involved with each individual's circumstances in order to determine their best strategy for maximizing their benefits. It sounds like you and your wife should strongly consider using the software to help you determine your best filing strategy.

One thing I would say given the limited amount of available information is that assuming that you and your wife could expect to live normal life spans, it would probably be best for you as the higher earner to wait until age 70 to start drawing your benefits if possible. That would not only provide you with the highest possible monthly benefit rate for as long as you live, but that higher rate could also potentially be passed on to your wife in the form of a widow's benefit if you die before her.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Mar 1 2021 - 12:15pm
MaxiFi software running on a laptop
Get What's Yours!
Discover tens of thousands in extra retirement dollars with Maximize My Social Security software!
  • Find your maximized strategy
  • Unlimited what-ifs
  • Step-by-Step filing instructions
  • Our software's lifetime-benefit increase for an illustrative couple earning $65K each and planning to take retirement benefits at 62.

    Results will differ based on your specific case and filing strategy.

Getting Started is Easy
Web-based software. Works on ALL browsers. No download.