Social Security Break-Even Calculator
Claim at 62, 67, or 70? Enter your benefit amounts and see the exact age at which waiting starts to pay off — and which choice gives you the most over your lifetime.
Your numbers
Find these on your statement at ssa.gov → my Social Security → Estimated Benefits. Monthly amounts, before taxes.
Your break-even ages
The break-even age is when the total collected by waiting catches up with claiming early.
Lifetime totals (to age 85)
| Claim at | Monthly check | Total collected |
|---|---|---|
| 62 | – | – |
| 67 | – | – |
| 70 | – | – |
Cumulative benefits by age
Simple math — no cost-of-living adjustments or taxes. Your real statement numbers give the most accurate answer.
What is the break-even age?
Claim early: smaller checks, more years. Claim late: bigger checks, fewer years. The break-even age is the birthday where the late claimer's lifetime total overtakes the early claimer's — usually around 78–82.
62 if you need the money now or value checks in hand. 70 if you're healthy, still working, or want the biggest survivor benefit for a spouse. 67 is the middle path.