Survivor Benefits – Ramp Up to Retirement

When Should You Claim Social Security? (Ep. 36)

By Ramp Up to Retirement | August 26, 2026

When should you claim Social Security, at 62, full retirement age, or 70?

The answer can affect more than your first monthly payment, including your future income, taxes, portfolio withdrawals, and the benefit available to a surviving spouse.

In this episode, Dan Reese, CFP®, explains how Social Security benefits differ when claimed at age 62, full retirement age, or age 70. He examines break-even calculations, annual cost-of-living adjustments, life expectancy, earnings limits, and household claiming decisions. Dan also explains how delaying benefits may create room for Roth conversions, change portfolio withdrawals, and support a surviving spouse.

Key points:

How claiming at 62, 67, or 70 can produce significantly different monthly Social Security payments
Why cost-of-living increases compound differently when your starting Social Security benefit is higher
When health, longevity, income needs, and other retirement resources may influence your claiming age
How delaying Social Security may create additional time for Roth conversions and lower taxable income
Why couples should consider survivor income before either spouse begins receiving Social Security
And more!

This is not intended to provide specific legal, tax, or other professional advice. For a comprehensive review of your personal situation, always consult with a tax or legal advisor. Converting from a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA is a taxable event.

Resources:

Carson Wealth Retirement Readiness Quiz

Connect with Dan Reese CFP®:

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Social Security Myths That May Derail Your Retirement Strategy (Ep. 14)

By Ramp Up to Retirement | July 23, 2025

Many people feel confident about Social Security until it’s time to file. That’s when the conflicting advice from neighbors, social media, and self-proclaimed experts can make a complex decision even harder.

In this episode, Dan Reese, CFP®, breaks down the most common Social Security myths and explains how decisions around claiming, spousal benefits, and timing can affect your broader retirement strategy.

Whether you’re married, divorced, or filing solo, Dan shares key considerations that may help you make a more informed decision and avoid unintended tax and income surprises later on.

What to expect in this episode:

Why claiming at 62 may not be the right fit for every situation
What to know about spousal benefits and survivor income planning
How early filing can affect future tax liabilities
Why longevity should factor into your Social Security decision
And more!