Social Security at 66 Provides $107,500 Before Age 70

Claiming Social Security at 66 can deliver approximately $107,500 before reaching 70. Delaying benefits until 70 increases the monthly payment to around $2,976, compared to $2,240 if claimed at 66, but breaks even around age 82. The annual delayed-retirement credits of 8% start at age 67. This decision impacts financial planning for those close to retirement, particularly for higher-earning married women. Understanding these numbers is crucial for ordinary investors as it affects retirement income strategies.