Social Security at 62 vs 67 vs 70: How Much Money You Actually Lose

Claiming Social Security at 62 instead of 70 can shrink your monthly check by $1,080 — every month, for life. In this video we use one clear example (a $2,000 full benefit at 67) to show the real monthly and lifetime numbers at 62, 67, and 70, the break-even ages, when claiming early can still make sense, the 2026 earnings-test limits, and the spousal rule most couples get wrong. Educational information only, based on Social Security Administration sources (ssa.gov). Not financial, tax, or legal advice. Your benefit depends on your own record — confirm your personal estimates in your my Social Security account before filing. Chapters: 0:00 The $1,080-a-Month Decision 1:00 Meet Robert: 62 vs 67 vs 70 2:30 Full Retirement Age Explained 4:15 Your Highest 35 Years 5:50 The Real Cost of Claiming at 62 8:00 8% a Year for Waiting 9:50 Lifetime Totals & Break-Even Ages 12:40 When Claiming Early Makes Sense 15:10 The Spousal Rule Couples Miss 17:05 Five Mistakes to Avoid 18:25 Recap & Your Checklist Subscribe for Social Security, Medicare, and retirement money explained in simple English.