Hold Out on Retirement and Reap the Rewards

In the year 2000 it was reported that 51% of men and 60% of women claimed their Social Security benefits as soon as they could – age 62. In fact, the percentage of claimants at age 62 has been fairly consistent for decades, even though claiming benefits at age 62 shows a significant and permanent reduction in the amount received per month.

A new study published this year found that the number of claimants at age 62 is dropping. Only 43% of men and 48% of women claimed their Social Security benefits at age 62 in 2006. It seems that more and more people are working longer and in the end, reaping greater rewards.

If you are able, there are many reasons to keep working past the age of 62. Staying active, learning new things, developing new talents, developing new relationships and staying socially connected all have very healthy rewards. Why sit around the house and watch TV when you keep yourself healthier and gain monetary benefits by continuing to work? Perhaps you take on a new job, try your hand at something you’ve always wanted to do or start a new business venture from home. However you keep working, it will benefit you in the long run.

One of the biggest reasons people may be staying in the workforce past age 62 is their Social Security benefits. When you wait, the amount of your check goes up and when you finally do stop working, you can enjoy a higher standard of living. Now that is a true reward.




For information on Social Security Disability, visit the

Social Security Disability SSI Resource Center
Medicare Information


Additional Resources

Social security disability and protective filing
Social security disability and trial work
Social Security Disability Expedited reinstatement
Social Security Disability date of entitlement