Social Security 101 — When to Claim and How to Maximize Your Benefit
Claiming at the wrong time can cost you tens of thousands of dollars over your lifetime. Our free seminars walk you through the math so you can make the right call for your situation.
What is Social Security 101?
Social Security retirement benefits are calculated based on your 35 highest-earning years. When you claim — anywhere from age 62 to 70 — has a permanent effect on your monthly benefit amount.
Our free Social Security 101 seminars explain the claiming rules, break down the math, and help you think through the right timing for your situation.
What We Cover at the Social Security 101 Seminar
How Your Benefit is Calculated
The Social Security Administration looks at your 35 highest-earning years, adjusts them for inflation, and calculates your Primary Insurance Amount (PIA). Your PIA is what you receive if you claim at your full retirement age.
Full Retirement Age
Full retirement age (FRA) is between 66 and 67 depending on when you were born. Claiming before FRA permanently reduces your benefit. Claiming after FRA increases it by 8% per year up to age 70.
Spousal and Survivor Benefits
A spouse can receive up to 50% of the higher-earning partner's benefit at full retirement age. Survivor benefits can be up to 100% of the deceased spouse's benefit. Claiming decisions made by one spouse affect both.
Working While Collecting
If you claim before full retirement age and continue working, your benefits may be temporarily reduced depending on how much you earn. After FRA, there is no earnings limit.
Have questions? Join a free seminar.
We hold Medicare 101 and Social Security 101 sessions throughout the year. Attend in person or over Zoom — whichever works best for you.
Social Security FAQ
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We add new sessions regularly. Drop your email and we will let you know.
Ready to get clear answers? Reserve your seat at a free Near Seminar seminar.
No obligation. No enrollment. Just clear information from a licensed professional.