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Claim at 62 Cuts Benefits 30% — Couples Urged to Coordinate

6/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Claiming at 62 cuts benefits 30% versus 67, while waiting to 70 adds 24%, raising $2,000 to about $2,480.
Jack Smalligan of the Urban Institute says health issues or short life expectancy can justify early claiming.
Martha Shedden, president of the National Association of Registered Social Security Analysts, warns early claims can reduce survivor benefits.
She advises married couples to coordinate claiming to protect spousal and dependent benefits.

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Story summary

Claiming at 62 cuts benefits 30% versus 67, while waiting to 70 adds 24%, raising $2,000 to about $2,480.
Jack Smalligan of the Urban Institute says health issues or short life expectancy can justify early claiming.
Martha Shedden, president of the National Association of Registered Social Security Analysts, warns early claims can reduce survivor benefits.
She advises married couples to coordinate claiming to protect spousal and dependent benefits.