FREE CHECKLIST FOR DELAWARE RETIREES
Claiming Social Security too early — or too late — can cost you tens of thousands of dollars. Do you know which way you're leaning?
This checklist walks you through the five factors that actually determine the right claiming age for your situation — before you make a decision you can't undo.
Timing
Each year you wait past 62 increases your benefit permanently
Taxes
Up to 85% of your benefit may be taxed depending on when you claim
Spouses
Your decision affects your spouse's survivor benefit for life
What the checklist covers
✓The break-even age calculation — and why it's not the whole story
✓How your health, life expectancy, and other income sources affect the decision
✓The spousal and survivor benefit factors most people overlook
✓How claiming age interacts with taxes on your benefit
✓The one question to answer before you make any claiming decision
This decision can't be undone
Once you claim Social Security, you generally can't change your mind. Most people make this decision without fully understanding how it interacts with taxes, spousal benefits, and their withdrawal strategy.
ML
Michael Loftus
Founder, Loftus Wealth Strategies · Bethany Beach, DE
"Social Security timing is one of the few retirement decisions with no take-backs. I've seen people leave $80,000 or more on the table by claiming at the wrong age for their situation. This checklist is the starting point for making that decision with your eyes open."
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
You've got the checklist. Here's how to put it to work.
Most people read it, recognize their situation, and want to know what to do next. Here are three ways to take the next step — at whatever pace works for you.
Get the full guide
Go deeper on each item in the checklist with specific strategies you can act on.
Talk it through with Michael
30 minutes. Free. Walk through your specific numbers and see what actually applies to your situation.
Schedule a free call →
Keep learning
30 minutes. Free. Walk through your specific numbers and see what actually applies to your situation.
Watch Michael's videos on Market crashes whenever you're ready.
What a discovery call actually looks like
✓ 30 minutes on Zoom or phone
✓ We look at your specific situation
✓ Delaware & Bethany Beach–based
✓ No cost, no obligation
✓ You leave with clarity, not a sales pitch
✓ Also serving FL, PA, NJ, MD, VA