Social Security Claiming Mistakes Cost You Big | Raleigh News

Social Security is wildly misunderstood—and timing your claim could cost you permanently. Claiming at 62 slashes your monthly benefit by 30%, but waiting until 70 boosts it by 8% per year. Someone retiring in 2026 who claims early gets just $2,969/month; waiting until 70 nets over $5,000/month—a $2,000+ monthly gap that grows with cost-of-living adjustments. Experts say waiting is smarter if you live past 80, since the break-even point is often around age 80. Also, if you’re still working past 62, earnings over $24,480 in 2026 will reduce your benefits. Married couples should coordinate claims to protect survivor benefits. Always verify your earnings record and run the numbers—these decisions are permanent and could save you tens of thousands over your lifetime. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/6b73c8c9815c8091