If you're nearing retirement, you may be asking yourself the same question millions of Americans have asked themselves: when should I begin claiming my Social Security benefits? The unfortunate truth is that the vast majority of claimants make the wrong decision,

In 2024, the life expectancy for someone born in 1959 was 74 for men and 80.1 for women, according to a Social Security report. The report predicts continuing increases in life expectancy, which translates into even more years that beneficiaries will receive Social Security checks.

President-elect Donald Trump's plans to protect Social Security benefits could give retirees more money in their pockets, but it could also deplete the program's funds more quickly over the long term.

Technically, you don't have to take Social Security when you retire. It's possible to leave your job at 62 and then wait until 70 to file for benefits. However, you'll need to rely on other sources of income during those years in between, which can take a hefty toll on your savings.

The full retirement age (FRA), the age at which retirees can claim their Social Security benefits, has been gradually increasing and will increase again in 2025. This year, those born in 1959 will reach their FRA at 66 years and 10 months, two months later than those born in 1958. For those born in 1960 or later, the FRA will rise to 67.

If you were planning to retire next year, double check your math because a law passed in the '80s is annually raising the age when Americans can

Here is all you need to know about this month’s Social Security payments, which go out in three rounds. When does the check arrive? Social Security payments typically begin on t