The age you file for Social Security is perhaps the most important decision affecting your benefit amount. You can begin taking benefits as early as 62, but waiting up to age 70 will earn you larger payments each month.

In 2024, the life expectancy for someone born in 1959 was 74 for men and 80.1 for women, according to a Social Security report. The report predicts continuing increases in life expectancy, which translates into even more years that beneficiaries will receive Social Security checks.

Technically, you don't have to take Social Security when you retire. It's possible to leave your job at 62 and then wait until 70 to file for benefits. However, you'll need to rely on other sources of income during those years in between, which can take a hefty toll on your savings.

As we step into 2025, you may be setting financial goals. While you're at it, you should also keep tabs on the Social Security changes this year.

The first round of January’s Social Security payments, worth up to $5,108 for the highest-income earners who retire at age 70, goes out to the first group of retirees today. Here is all you need to know about this month’s Social Security payments, which go out in three rounds.

Dear Rusty: My wife will reach her full Social Security benefit at 66.5 years of age which is just under 2 years away for her now. If she were to begin to get her monthly check now (i.e. early), would that prevent her from being eligible for the spousal benefit to receive half of what I am currently drawing? Signed: Curious Husband

Stan T. has mastered the art of maintaining his 1970s ranch house on a fixed income. After seven years of living primarily on Social Security benefits, this 72-year-old former mechanic has figured

Carl Carlson, founder and CEO of Carlson Financial, visited Eye on NE Kansas to take a closer look a changes for Social Security.