1. You’re Not Working Anymore

When you claim benefits early, you’re signing up for a lifetime of lower income, but even ‘less money’ is better than ‘no money’.

This goes for those who left the workforce early, either by choice or not. Without a sustainable income, making ends meet would be impossible and could lead you to fall into debt, which is the last thing you need during retirement.

This goes doubly so if you’re looking after your spouse, in which case putting off your Social Security should be the last thing on your mind. Your benefits could help with monthly bills and could supplement your savings, even if you’re not claiming quite as much as you would have liked.