Social Security Estimator
Estimate your Social Security benefits at different claiming ages, compare strategies, and find the optimal time to start collecting.
Your Information
Your career-average earnings before taxes
SSA uses your highest 35 years; fewer years means zeros are averaged in
FRA = Full Retirement Age (67 for those born 1960 or later)
Benefit at Age 67
Key Ages Summary
Key Insights
Delayed Filing Credits
Each year you delay past FRA (up to 70) earns an 8% permanent increase to your benefit -- one of the best guaranteed returns available. Over 3 years, that is a 24% boost.
Spousal Strategies
A spouse can receive up to 50% of the higher earner's PIA. Coordinating when each spouse claims can significantly increase total household benefits over a lifetime, especially if one spouse has much higher earnings.
Taxation of Benefits
Up to 85% of your Social Security benefits may be subject to federal income tax depending on your combined income. Planning withdrawals from other accounts can help minimize the tax impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Important Disclaimer
This estimator is for educational and planning purposes only. It provides simplified estimates based on the 2024 SSA benefit formula and bend points. Actual benefits depend on your complete earnings history, cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs), and future legislative changes.
Simplified Calculation: The SSA uses your actual indexed earnings for each year. This tool approximates by using your average annual income and years worked. For a more precise estimate, visit ssa.gov/myaccount to view your official Social Security Statement.
Professional Advice: Consider consulting a qualified financial advisor or Social Security specialist for personalized claiming strategy advice that accounts for your complete financial picture, health status, and family situation.
Optimize Your Social Security Strategy
Get personalized claiming advice from Warren AI. We'll help you coordinate Social Security with your broader retirement plan.