In HelloNation, Retirement Planning Expert Janie Kelly Explains When to Claim Social Security

The article outlines how income, health, taxes, and long-term goals can influence the right time to begin collecting benefits.

ROCHESTER HILLS, Mich., Oct. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- When should you claim Social Security? That question is answered in a HelloNation article featuring insights from Retirement Planning Expert Janie Kelly of Kelly Capital Partners in Rochester Hills, Michigan.

The article explains that choosing when to begin receiving Social Security benefits is one of the most important financial decisions many people make during retirement. While some individuals focus on claiming benefits as early as possible, the article emphasizes that the right decision depends on personal financial circumstances, health, work plans, and long-term retirement goals.

According to the article, individuals can begin claiming Social Security benefits as early as age 62 if they qualify. However, claiming before reaching full retirement age generally results in a lower monthly benefit. Waiting beyond full retirement age will increase the monthly benefit for each year benefits are delayed, up to age 70, but the article notes that delaying benefits is not automatically the best choice for everyone.

Current income needs are one of the first factors to consider. The HelloNation article explains that some people retire earlier than expected because of health concerns or employment changes, making Social Security an important source of retirement income. Others may have retirement savings, pensions, or investment accounts that allow them to delay claiming benefits while relying on other income sources.

Health and family history also play an important role in retirement planning. The article notes that individuals expecting a longer retirement may benefit from waiting to receive a larger monthly benefit over time. Those facing significant health concerns may decide that claiming earlier better supports their financial needs. Evaluating personal circumstances helps create a decision that reflects individual retirement goals rather than following someone else's experience.

Married couples often have additional planning considerations. The article explains that spousal benefits, survivor benefits, and differences in each spouse's earnings history can all affect total household income during retirement. Looking at the financial picture as a whole rather than focusing on one person's Social Security benefits can help couples make more informed long-term decisions.

Taxes are another important part of the discussion. According to the article, Social Security benefits may be taxable depending on total household income. Withdrawals from retirement accounts, pension payments, and investment income may all influence the amount of taxes owed. Including tax planning in retirement planning helps individuals better understand how much retirement income will actually be available after taxes.

The article also discusses continuing to work while receiving Social Security benefits. Individuals who claim benefits before reaching full retirement age and continue working may see their benefits reduced if their earnings exceed the annual limit. Once full retirement age is reached, those earnings limits no longer apply. Understanding these rules can help people better coordinate employment income with their overall retirement strategy.

The HelloNation article emphasizes that claiming Social Security should not be viewed as an isolated financial decision. Retirement savings, pensions, investments, personal expenses, and expected income all work together to support long-term financial security. Reviewing each part of a retirement plan helps determine how Social Security benefits fit within a broader financial strategy.

The article also cautions against making decisions based solely on the experiences of friends or family members. Every household has different financial resources, health considerations, tax situations, and retirement goals. A strategy that works well for one person may not produce the same outcome for someone else.

The article concludes that deciding when to claim Social Security requires balancing today's financial needs with future retirement security. By carefully evaluating income needs, taxes, retirement income, health, and retirement goals, individuals can make informed decisions that support greater confidence throughout retirement.

When Should You Claim Social Security? Features insights from Janie Kelly, Retirement Planning Expert of Rochester Hills, Michigan, in HelloNation.

Please click the link to read the article and view important disclosures.

About HelloNation

HelloNation is America's Good News Network, a premier media platform built on the idea that good news travels faster when real people tell real stories. Through its community-focused publications and innovative "edvertising" approach, HelloNation delivers content that informs, inspires, and spotlights the leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

SOURCE HelloNation