Why Filing at 66 or 67 Is Not Automatically the “Safe” Choice
Confused by Social Security?
Many retirees assume: “I’ll just file at Full Retirement Age. It’s the safe middle ground.” But for many households, filing at FRA reduces survivor income and increases taxes.
1. FRA Is an Administrative Benchmark — Not a Financial One
The government designed it for convenience, not optimization.
2. FRA May Still Be Too Early for the Higher Earner
Filing at 67 often leaves tens of thousands on the table and a spouse with lower survivor income.
Thinking about filing at 66 or 67?
Let’s test whether that’s actually the safest option for you.
3. FRA Doesn’t Consider Your Tax Picture
Often, delaying lowers taxes, reduces RMD pressure, and reduces IRMAA risk.
About Author
Ray R. Harris
Ray R. Harris, RSSA®, partners with tax and legal professionals to provide specialized Social Security claiming analysis for high-net-worth clients aged 58–70. A former executive with an MBA and background in Finance, Ray mitigates liability for his partners by ensuring their clients optimize spousal benefits, tax efficiency, and lifetime income.
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