Last time I wrote about “life expectancy” and the likelihood of living longer – and hopefully – healthier lives.   

Today’s article explores a bit about our national pension, which is not really called “social security” at all.  It’s formally known as the “Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance” program, or OASDI.  It’s administered by the Social Security Administration and is a federal social insurance program established in 1935 that provides monthly benefits to retired workers, people with disabilities, and survivors of deceased insured workers.  

I’m not qualified to tell you when the best time for you is to claim your benefits, and my post today is simply to share how I’m thinking about this with a new awareness about my potential for longevity! 

Few financial decisions feel as personal—or as emotional—as choosing when to claim Social Security. Many people think, “It’s my money, and I want it as soon as I can get it.” After decades of contributions, that instinct makes sense. Waiting can feel like losing out. 

But claiming Social Security isn’t really about getting “your money back.” It’s about protecting your future self—especially if you live a long time and rely on that monthly check. 

People often worry: 

• “What if I die early and never get my benefits?” 

• “What if Social Security runs out?” 

• “Why wait when I could start collecting today?” 

Valid concerns—but only half the picture. 

What often gets overlooked is how much your benefit grows if you wait. Claim at 62 and you permanently reduce your payment by up to 30%. Claim at full retirement age and you get your full benefit. Wait until 70 and you earn roughly 8% more per year after a lifetime raise, adjusted for inflation. 

Early claimers say, “But what if I die and never get my money?” A fair question. But perhaps the better one is: “What if I live to 90?!   If I die early, I won’t care—but if I live a long time, I’ll be glad I waited.”  And so will any survivors who get continue to receive benefits.  

Of course, claiming early can be the right move if you’re in poor health, need the income, are coordinating with a spouse, or want to avoid tapping investments in a down market.  

Instead of asking, “What if I die early?” try asking, “What if I live a long time—will I have enough?” 

Social Security is one of the few guaranteed, inflation‑adjusted income streams you’ll ever have. Maximizing it can make a meaningful difference in your later years. 

If you die early, you won’t care about the money you didn’t collect. But if you live a long life, you’ll be very glad you locked in the higher benefit.