Social Security is one of the biggest pieces of your retirement puzzle — but it can also be one of the most confusing. When should you start? How do spousal or survivor benefits work? And what happens if you’re divorced? Let’s simplify it so you can make smart, peaceful decisions about your future.

🕒 When Can I Start Collecting?

You can begin claiming benefits at 62, but your monthly check will be smaller. Your Full Retirement Age (FRA) depends on your birth year — usually 66 or 67.

• Claim early (62–66): smaller check
• Claim at FRA: full check
• Wait until 70: your check grows bigger

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📊 How Do I Qualify?

To qualify, you need at least 40 “credits” — about 10 years of work. Social Security looks at your highest 35 years of earnings to calculate your monthly benefit. If you don’t have 35 years, those missing years count as zeros, but working longer can help fill the gap.

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💍 What About Spousal Benefits?

Spousal benefits allow you to receive up to 50% of your spouse’s benefit, even if you didn’t work yourself. To apply, your spouse must already have claimed their benefit.

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🕊️ Survivor Benefits

If your spouse passes away, you may be eligible for 100% of their benefit. Widows and widowers can often claim as early as age 60.

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⏳ Should I Delay Benefits?

If you wait past your Full Retirement Age, your check grows about 8% each year until age 70. This can make sense if you expect to live longer, or if you don’t need the income right away.

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💔 Divorced? You Might Still Qualify

If you were married at least 10 years, are age 62+, and haven’t remarried, you may qualify for benefits based on your ex-spouse’s record.

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✨ Final Thoughts

Social Security is not one-size-fits-all. When and how you claim can make a big difference in your retirement income. Taking time to understand your options means more peace of mind — and a more secure retirement.

💡 Want help figuring out what works best for you? Reach out — I love helping people make these decisions simpler.

📩 Contact me at goalswithclaudia@gmail.com or follow along at Goals with Claudia for more practical money help.