SOCIAL SECURITY PLANNING: WHEN SHOULD YOU START BENEFITS?
FROM BALTIMORE-WASHINGTON FINANCIAL ADVISORS
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Thad Ismart, CFP®, ChFEBC, CEPS
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Tessa Hall
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About This Episode
Tessa speaks with BWFA’s Thad about Social Security planning, how benefits are funded, and what changes may be ahead. They discuss common concerns about whether Social Security will remain available in the future and how the system works today.
The conversation also explores when to start Social Security benefits, how working can impact those benefits, and why timing decisions should be based on individual financial and personal circumstances. To better understand how Social Security planning fits into your broader retirement strategy, visit our Financial Planning page.
Read Full Description
Social Security planning plays a key role in many retirement strategies. However, uncertainty continues around how the system may change in the future.
In this episode of Healthy, Wealthy & Wise, Tessa speaks with BWFA’s Thad about Social Security planning and what individuals should consider when preparing for retirement. Many people question whether Social Security will still exist, but the situation is more nuanced.
Payroll taxes and trust fund reserves currently support Social Security benefits. Even if changes occur, benefits are unlikely to disappear entirely. Instead, lawmakers may adjust how the system operates over time.
Timing remains one of the most important decisions in Social Security planning. Starting benefits early reduces monthly income, and continuing to work can reduce benefits further, depending on earnings. For this reason, individuals should evaluate their situation carefully before making a decision.
Benefit calculations also play an important role. Social Security uses your highest 35 years of earnings and adjusts them for inflation. Because of this, working longer does not always lead to a meaningful increase in benefits.
Delaying benefits can increase lifetime income for some individuals. This strategy becomes especially important when considering spousal benefits and long-term financial needs.
Ultimately, Social Security planning is not one-size-fits-all. Your financial situation, health, and long-term goals should guide your decision. With the right approach, you can make more informed choices about when to start benefits and how they fit into your overall plan.