The break-even question
Claim at 62 = lower monthly but more years collected. Delay to 70 = higher monthly but fewer years. Break-even is typically age 78–82. If you live past 82, delay wins; if you die before, early wins. Family longevity history matters more than projections.
Spousal coordination
Higher earner usually delays to 70 (locks in surviving-spouse benefit). Lower earner can claim at FRA or earlier — they'll switch to the survivor benefit later. Major lifetime planning lever for married couples.
Working while claiming
Before FRA, earnings above $22,320 (2026) reduce benefits $1 for every $2 over. After FRA, no earnings test. Important if you plan part-time work in your 60s while claiming early.
FAQ
Is Social Security going broke?
Trust fund projected to be depleted ~2034. After that, payroll taxes still cover ~77% of scheduled benefits. Plan for a 20% haircut as a worst case; Congress usually patches before depletion.
Are benefits taxed?
Up to 85% of SS is federally taxed when 'combined income' (AGI + 50% SS + non-taxable interest) exceeds $34K single / $44K MFJ. State varies — 13 states tax SS, 37 don't.
How does divorce affect benefits?
Married 10+ years, divorced, single: you can claim on ex-spouse's record without affecting their benefit. Take the larger of own or 50% of ex's.
How this calculator is built
Independently maintained
Written by Sam Doshi and the RevenueLab editorial team. We don't sell the data feeds this tool is built on.
Sourced from primary data
Benchmarks come from public AdSense / Stripe / IRS disclosures and reader-submitted data — never third-party "$X per view" claims. Full methodology.
Last reviewed
June 2026. We re-check every figure on the platform on a rolling quarterly cycle.
Editorial standards
See our editorial policy and disclaimer. Results are estimates, not advice.