#8. Is It Always Best to Wait Until Age 70 to Claim Social Security?

Dear Rusty: I’m 66 years old and still (self) employed as a home builder. I have not taken Social Security benefits yet, and don’t need to at this time. If relevant, my business struggled when I first started it five years ago, but did well last year, and I’ll have my highest earning year in my life this year and possibly next year as well. My question is, and it may be dumb, is it always best to delay Social Security until age 70 if there is no current financial need for it? Also, are benefits calculated by total dollars earned over a lifetime, or is some kind of average or mean computation used? I’ve enjoyed excellent health throughout my life, and I have longevity in my family. I’m single if that’s relevant. Signed: Planning Ahead

What is Ask Rusty: Your Social Security Advisor?

Russ “Rusty” Gloor is a member of the AMAC Foundation’s accredited Social Security Advisory staff. With each episode of “Ask Rusty” he will tell you about an actual Social Security question received at the AMAC Foundation offices.

These recordings are intended for information purposes only and do not represent legal or financial guidance. They present the opinions and interpretations of the AMAC Foundation’s staff, trained and accredited by the National Social Security Association (NSSA). NSSA and the AMAC Foundation, and its staff are not affiliated with or endorsed by the Social Security Administration or any other governmental entity. To submit a question, visit our website (amacfoundation.org/programs/social-security-advisory) or email us at [e-mail].>