Delaying Social Security is a Scam

Take what you can — give nothing back

AI image by the author

One of my family’s all-time favorite film series is Pirates of the Caribbean movies starring Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow.

One of the many great lines from the films repeated often is…

Which summarizes my own plan when it comes to collecting social security.

Sure, I realize that may be an easy thing to write at the age of fifty-two, but IF, IF, and IF, I’m certain that I will feel the same way and, more importantly, take action and begin collecting something that I have already contributed to for thirty years should I remain among the living ten years from now.

For many of us, delaying social security doesn’t make sense.

Let’s consider who it might make sense for:

1. If you are extraordinarily healthy AND have a family history of long life expectancy, it might be worth rolling the dice.
2. If you plan to work anyway for reasons other than financial. You, of course, should just let it roll.
3. Social security isn’t going to represent a significant portion of your retirement income.

Everyone else should claim as soon as possible and feel good about their decision.