Maximize your retirement income with data-driven claiming strategies
Found on your SSA.gov statement
See how your choice compares to the optimal age.
| Age | Monthly | Annual | % of FRA | Break-even vs 62 |
|---|
Based on income from 2 years prior
Thresholds adjust annually. Part D surcharges are additional. MFS uses single thresholds.
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Each year past FRA adds 8% to your monthly benefit — a guaranteed, inflation-adjusted return that's hard to match elsewhere.
Draw down IRAs from 62–70 while delaying SS. You receive a larger SS check for life, reducing longevity risk and often reducing IRMAA by lowering future RMDs.
Lower earner claims early (62–FRA) while higher earner delays to 70. Maximizes household income and survivor benefit — when one spouse dies, the higher check survives.
Up to 85% of SS is taxable if combined income (½ SS + other income) exceeds $34K single / $44K married. Roth conversions before 65 reduce future provisional income.
If married 10+ years, you may claim on an ex-spouse's record (up to 50% of their FRA benefit) without affecting their benefit.
Convert traditional IRA → Roth in low-income years (typically 60–64). Roth distributions don't count toward MAGI or IRMAA, and reduce future RMDs.
One dollar over a tier threshold triggers the full tier premium. A $1 Roth conversion could cost $600+/year in IRMAA. Model your MAGI carefully before December 31.
Age 70½+: donate up to $105,000/year directly from an IRA to charity. Counts toward RMD but bypasses MAGI entirely — reduces IRMAA exposure dollar for dollar.
If income dropped due to retirement, divorce, or death of spouse, you can request IRMAA be based on current income rather than 2-year-old data. File SSA-44 with documentation.
HSA contributions reduce MAGI. After 65, HSA funds pay Medicare premiums tax-free. Max out while still on a high-deductible plan.
A lump sum purchase produces a guaranteed monthly check for life (or a set period). Best used at 70–75 to cover fixed essential expenses alongside delayed SS — eliminates the fear of outliving assets.
Purchase in your 60s, payments start at 80 or 85. Inexpensive premiums for large future income. Pairs well with a managed portfolio that only needs to last to 80 — not to 95.
Growth indexed to a market benchmark with downside protection. Note: IRA-based annuities still create RMDs. Non-qualified annuity income only adds to MAGI when gains are distributed — useful for IRMAA planning.
Before buying a commercial annuity, consider: delaying SS is often the best "annuity" available — inflation-adjusted, survivor benefit included, no counterparty risk. Max SS first, then evaluate commercial products for the gap.