Started Social Security at 62 - Do you regret it or feel it was the right choice?

Best decision I ever made! I took SS at 62 three years ago. Yes, I got about $630 less per month than if I'd waited to FRA, but that's still $1,890 coming in every month that I wouldn't have had. I've been able to stop dipping into my savings so much, and I'm enjoying life NOW while I'm still healthy enough to travel and do fun stuff. By my calculations, the break-even point was somewhere in my early 80s - and honestly, who knows if I'll even make it that far? My financial advisor initially disagreed with my decision, but I have zero regrets.

I regret it every single month when I see that deposit. Took it at 62 because I lost my job during covid and panicked. Now I'm stuck with $1425/month FOR LIFE instead of the $2180 I could've had at my FRA. Found another job 6 months later but it was too late - already locked in at the lower amount. If you don't absolutely NEED the money right now, WAIT!!!

took mine @ 62 no regrets at all!! that money helped me enjoy my early retirement years when i could still do stuff. my buddy waited till 70 for max benefits but then got parkinsons at 72 and couldnt travel or do anything fun with the extra $$. nobody knows how long theyll be healthy enough to enjoy the money!!

I think this is one of those decisions where people focus too much on the math and not enough on their actual life situation. I claimed at 62 about 5 years ago because: 1. Family health history wasn't great (heart disease) 2. I wanted to stop full-time work 3. Had enough savings that the reduced amount wasn't going to hurt badly For me it was 100% the right choice. But my sister waited until her FRA and that was right for HER situation. That said - be VERY careful if you plan to keep working! The earnings limit before 62 is brutal - anything over $21,240 (for 2025) and they withhold $1 of benefits for every $2 you earn. Many people don't realize how much this can cut into their payments.

I see so many people on both sides of this and honestly, there's no single right answer. It depends entirely on your personal situation. A few important considerations beyond the basic math: 1. Are you still working? The earnings limit in 2025 is $21,240/year before they start withholding benefits ($1 for every $2 above the limit). 2. Spousal benefits - if you're married, how does your claiming strategy affect your spouse? 3. Tax implications - claiming early while still working can push you into a higher tax bracket and make up to 85% of your SS benefits taxable. 4. Your health and family longevity are legitimate factors - the actuarial tables aren't personalized. One thing worth mentioning: if you claim early and regret it, you can still withdraw your application within 12 months of starting benefits (but you must repay all benefits received). And at FRA, you can suspend benefits to earn delayed retirement credits going forward.

I've worked as a financial advisor for 20 years, and one thing I've noticed is that people who claim at 62 due to genuine need or a clear lifestyle choice rarely regret it. Those who regret it usually: 1. Didn't understand the permanent reduction 2. Didn't account for the earnings limit if still working 3. Didn't consider their spouse's situation 4. Made a fear-based decision during market downturns Given your health concerns and decent savings, early claiming might make sense for you. Just make sure you're clear on how it affects other aspects of your financial plan. One consideration: look at your highest 35 earning years. If you're still in high-earning years, continuing to work (even part-time) can replace lower-earning years in your benefit calculation, potentially increasing your monthly amount somewhat.

My uncle waited until 70 to maximize his payments and died at 71. My dad took it at 62 and lived to 92. Guess which one got WAY more money from Social Security? Just saying...

Whatever you do, DON'T try calling Social Security to discuss your options. I spent THREE DAYS trying to get through to someone to ask questions about early filing. Kept getting disconnected or waiting for hours. The system is completely broken!!!!

One thing nobody's mentioned - you can claim at 62 but immediately suspend benefits if you change your mind within 12 months (though you'd have to pay back what you received). It's like a trial run if you're really on the fence. Just another option to consider.

Thank you all for the thoughtful responses! I'm seeing that personal circumstances really do matter more than the pure math. I'm leaning toward taking it at 62 since my part-time work will stay under the earnings limit, and my health concerns make me question if I'll hit that break-even point in my 80s. Plus, I'd rather enjoy the money while I'm young enough to use it for travel. Really appreciate everyone sharing their experiences - this has been super helpful!