[BarryRX]

Originally Posted by tpop1

Here is another very different opinion.

I decided long ago that I would start taking my SSI as early as I could. I am a Bell System retiree and once heard that the average Bell System retiree collected only 17 monthly pension checks before they died.

Made my decision easy.

Calcultions that I did and studies I found,that depending on taxes, inflation, and investment returns, the range of break-even ages goes from 81 to 86 1/2.

It was a bet I hope I lose!!!!


What's Your Social Security Break-Even Age? - The Best Life (usnews.com)

I agree completely! I started taking my benefits at 62. When I did the calculations, my breakeven point was 81 years old! I would much rather have the extra money now while I am still vital enough to enjoy it than to a) die before the age of 80 or b) not be able to enjoy it at that age. I also figure that if a few hundred dollars a month will make a big difference to me at age 80, then my retirement plan hasn't worked very well. I just figured that if I am fortunate enough to live to age 80 (neither of my parents did) then I probably wont be going out as often or traveling as often.