What should folks consider when making this decision People should consider the following when deciding when to take Social Security benefits Understanding that if they take benefits before full retirement age they will be subject to a reductionDelaying past full retirement age means receiving an annual increase of called a delayed retirement creditCash flow needs if retiring and replacing incomePaying down debtIncreasing charitable givingHealth and longevity in the family impacting how long benefits may need to last Legacy goals and inheritance as Social Security benefits can't typically be passed on while portfolio assets can beIncome taxes as Social Security could
[... more]