The Retirement Nerds · We Ran the Numbers: When Singles vs Married Couples Should Take Social Security

1. 1. Considering investment growth significantly extends the Social Security break-even age for individuals.
2. 2. Survivor benefits provide the larger of two spousal benefits and are critical for longevity planning.
3. 3. Spousal benefits are based on the higher earner's Primary Insurance Amount, not their elected benefit.
4. 4. Personal factors like health, current earnings, and marital stability profoundly influence optimal filing strategies.
5. 5. Divorced individuals can claim spousal or survivor benefits based on an ex-spouse's work record.