Make the Most of Your Social Security Benefits

It provides critical financial support during retirement, disability, or after the loss of a loved one. But when and how you claim your benefits can have a major impact on your lifetime income.

Our team includes former Social Security employees who know the system inside and out. If you’re nearing retirement or exploring your options, we’re here to help you maximize your benefits and avoid costly mistakes.

👉 Schedule a call below with one of our experts for personalized guidance.

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What is Social Security

A federal program that provides financial support during retirement, disability, or after the death of a family wage earner. Funded by payroll taxes from workers and employers, it serves as a critical safety net for millions of Americans.

Established in 1935 as part of the New Deal, it was created to protect older adults and individuals unable to work due to health or hardship—helping ensure a basic level of income and stability throughout life’s transitions.

It is a government program in the United States designed to provide financial support to individuals during retirement, disability, or in the event of the death of a family wage earner. It is primarily funded through payroll taxes collected from workers and employers. The program was established in 1935 as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal, with the goal of providing a safety net for older Americans and others who are unable to work due to age or disability.

How Can Social Security Help You?

It provides a reliable stream of income when you’re no longer earning a paycheck—whether due to retirement, disability, or the loss of a family breadwinner. It helps ensure you can continue covering essential expenses like housing, food, and healthcare, even in life’s most challenging seasons.

For many retirees, it forms the foundation of their income plan, offering vital financial stability and peace of mind throughout retirement.

Benefits of Social Security

Retirement Income Based on Your Work History

Once you reach eligibility age, you can begin receiving retirement benefits, which are calculated based on your lifetime earnings. These monthly payments provide a dependable income stream in retirement, helping cover everyday expenses and supporting long-term financial stability.
Disability Protection If You Can’t Work

If a serious medical condition prevents you from working, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides monthly income to replace part of your lost wages. This benefit helps ensure financial stability during a difficult time and is available to individuals who meet the program’s medical and work history requirements.
Support for Your Loved Ones After You’re Gone
Medicare Eligibility Is Tied to Social Security

While Medicare is a separate program, your eligibility for Medicare is closely linked to your Social Security record. Most people automatically qualify for Medicare at age 65 if they’re eligible for Social Security benefits. Enrolling in it often triggers automatic Medicare enrollment, making retirement planning more seamless.

How Does Social Security Work When Turning it On at Different Ages?

Early Retirement (Age 62)

You can start receiving Social Security benefits as early as age 62, but doing so comes with a permanent reduction in your monthly payment. The reduction can be as much as 30% less than what you would receive if you waited until your Full Retirement Age (FRA). While early benefits offer faster access to income, they result in lower lifetime benefits if you live a long retirement.
Full Retirement Age

Your Full Retirement Age depends on your birth year—usually falling between 66 and 67. If you start claiming Social Security at your FRA, you’ll receive your full, unreduced monthly benefit. Claiming earlier results in a permanent reduction, while waiting beyond FRA allows you to increase your benefit through delayed retirement credits.
Delayed Retirement (After Full Retirement Age)

If you delay claiming Social Security benefits beyond your Full Retirement Age, your monthly benefit will increasethanks to delayed retirement credits. For each year you wait—up to age 70—your benefit typically grows by about 8% annually. This strategy can significantly boost your income in retirement, especially if you expect to live well into your 80s or beyond.

No-Obligation Consultation: Make Informed Social Security Decisions

It is one of the most important sources of financial support during retirement, disability, or after the loss of a loved one. When and how you choose to begin benefits can significantly impact your lifetime income—making timing and strategy critical.

Whether you’re nearing retirement, navigating a disability, or planning survivor benefits for your family, our team at Diversified Insurance Brokers can help you understand your options, avoid costly mistakes, and build a strategy that supports your long-term financial goals.

👉 Schedule a call with one of our Social Security experts —including former SSA employees—for personalized, trustworthy guidance.

Additional Resources
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