Motley Fool Urges 6 Social Security Moves as Delaying Claims Can Lift Benefits 8% a Year
Updated
Updated · The Motley Fool · Jun 6
Motley Fool Urges 6 Social Security Moves as Delaying Claims Can Lift Benefits 8% a Year
3 articles · Updated · The Motley Fool · Jun 6
Summary
Six steps outlined by Motley Fool center on checking SSA earnings records, timing claims and aligning portfolios before summer ends, using the quieter period between Fed meetings to review retirement plans.
Age 62 claims can cut monthly benefits by up to 30%, while waiting past full retirement age raises payouts 8% a year until 70, making bridge-year cash planning a key decision.
Portfolio choices shape that timing: wealthier retirees may claim earlier to avoid selling stocks in downturns, while others may rebalance AI-driven tech and energy gains or shift toward broad ETFs.
Social Security alone may be riskier over time because the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget warned average checks could be cut by $500 in 2032, increasing the value of catch-up IRA and 401(k) contributions.
Married couples are urged to coordinate claims so the higher earner delays until 70, preserving a larger survivor benefit for the spouse who outlives them.