3 Reasons to Claim Social Security at 62

• Early Social Security at 62 can make sense despite benefit cuts. • Immediate income may enable earlier retirement. • Lower-earner spouse claiming early can help higher earner delay. While claiming Social Security at 62 reduces benefits by 30%, three situations can make it worthwhile. First, the income can allow early retirement when combined with savings. Second, if you have health concerns and may not reach your mid-80s, starting benefits sooner avoids the break-even point of waiting. Third, for married couples, the lower earner claiming at 62 provides household income, allowing the higher earner to delay claiming and increase their benefit. This strategy can also boost future survivor benefits for the lower-earning spouse.