Could a simple mistake cost you thousands in Social Security benefits? The short answer is yes. Claiming too early, misjudging work penalties, or overlooking survivorship benefits can take a serious toll on your retirement income.
So how do you avoid this? Tune in as certified retirement counselor Mark Struthers breaks down the top three Social Security mistakes couples make—and what to do instead. You’ll learn how to coordinate benefits for maximum lifetime value, how work income can reduce early benefits, and why timing your claim isn’t just about today’s cash flow, but about long-term security for both partners.
What You’ll Learn:
- Why claiming Social Security too early can be a permanent setback.
- Understanding break-even ages: 62 vs 67 vs 70.
- How working while claiming benefits can unexpectedly reduce your income.
- Managing spousal and survivorship benefits with timing and strategy.
- Why coordination between spouses is crucial for long-term benefit maximization.
- How planning for longevity risk helps you make smarter retirement decisions.
Ideas Worth Sharing:
- “Despite all the drama around the cuts of Social Security administration and solvency, Social Security is a great asset.” – Mark Struthers
- “The longer the deceased spouse waits to claim, the higher the survivorship benefit.” – Mark Struthers
- “You want to make sure you’re enjoying your healthier years, which are usually the 60s and 70s.” – Mark Struthers
Resources:
- Work with Mark Struthers
- Subscribe to our Healthy & Wealthy newsletter and get our 2025 Tax Cheat Sheet: Subscribe here
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Disclosure:
Investment advisory services are offered through Sona Financial LLC (DBA Sona Wealth Advisors, Sona Wealth, Sona Wealth Management), an investment adviser registered in the state of MN. Sona Financial only offers investment advisory services where it is appropriately registered or exempt from registration and only after clients have entered into an investment advisory agreement confirming the terms of engagement and have been provided a copy of the firm’s ADV Part 2A brochure and document.
This video or article is for educational purposes only and is not exhaustive. Nothing discussed during this show/episode should be viewed as investment advice. Diversification and/or any strategy that may be discussed does not guarantee against investment losses but is intended to help manage risk and return. If applicable, historical discussions and/or opinions are not predictive of future events. The content is presented in good faith and has been drawn from sources believed to be reliable. The content is not intended to be legal, tax, or financial advice. Please consult a legal, tax, or financial professional for information specific to your individual situation.
This content has not been reviewed by FINRA.