7. Laid-off older workers can claim unemployment before rushing to file for benefits
Seniors may wish to remain in the workforce for a multitude of reasons: accumulating extra money for their retirement savings, good health, loving their jobs… So it might not be surprising that a lot of 62-year-olds have remained in the workforce.
However, as COVID-19 continues to sweep the nation, there’s a big chance that, if you fall under this category, you might get laid off through no fault of your own. In this case, though you’re eligible for Social Security, it might be a better idea to instead claim unemployment first.
This way you won’t be forced to dip into those savings too early. It could help ensure that you won’t get a reduction in benefits either. See if you’re eligible for unemployment first and foremost!