Don’t claim any benefits if you’re still working

The ideal situation is to put off claiming your benefits if you can live on what you’re currently earning. Nevertheless, if you’re still working and need the Social Security benefits to pay for other expenses, you should know that a certain percentage of your monthly benefit will be withheld if your earnings exceed $18.960.

Take care of your debts

Don’t wait until you reach your retirement age to pay off your debts, especially when they can take a big bite out of your Social Security check. Federal tax, child support or alimony, and federal student loan debts are all eligible for garnishment.

Therefore, make sure you get rid of them before you retire so you can keep your check intact and live a worry-free retirement.