Social Security Timing Comparison
The age you claim Social Security changes everything. Run the numbers and see.
Cumulative Lifetime Income
COLA-adjusted. See when each strategy takes the lead.
Strategy Comparison
All totals reflect COLA compounding over your full lifetime.
| Claim Age | Starting Benefit | Benefit at Life Exp. | Years Collecting | Lifetime Income | vs Age 62 |
|---|
Breakeven Crossover Detail
Cumulative income every 5 years — ★ marks your life expectancy.
| Age | Cumulative at 62 | Cumulative at FRA | Cumulative at 70 | Leader |
|---|
How This Works
Claiming at 62
Payments start sooner but are permanently reduced — up to 30% if your FRA is 67. COLA still applies each year, but it compounds off a smaller starting benefit, widening the gap over time.
COLA — The Equal Adjuster
Social Security adjusts all benefits each year for inflation. It applies to every strategy equally — but because it compounds, a higher starting benefit at 70 grows further in dollar terms each year.
Delayed Credits (8%/yr)
Every year you wait past FRA permanently adds 8% to your monthly benefit, stopping at age 70. Combined with COLA on a higher base, waiting typically wins for those with longer life expectancies.