Understanding Social Security: Timing, Taxes & Spousal Benefits

Written By Michael Custer

Social Security is a key part of retirement planning. While it can seem complex, understanding the basics can make you feel more confident in your decision and how it fits with the rest of your plan.

In this video, we highlight a few essential factors to consider before choosing when to begin benefits. What we cover:

✅ Full Retirement Age: How it’s calculated and why it even matters.

✅ Early vs. Delayed Benefits: What happens if you claim at 62 vs. 67 or 70.

✅ Working While Collecting: How income could reduce your S.S. benefit.

✅ Social Security Taxes: How much is taxable and does each state treat it differently?

✅ Break-Even Ages: Things to consider about longevity and health.

✅ Planning Ahead: Coordinating spousal benefits and looking at the bigger retirement picture.

Whether you’re close to retirement or just planning ahead, this video aims to help educate you so you can make more informed decisions that fit your life and goals.

Michael Custer

Michael graduated from Hope College where he played Quarterback for the football team. Now, he focuses on tax strategies, helping W-2 employees and small business owners with implementing tax strategies, learning their choices with old work retirement plans, and Roth IRAs. He has a passion for building a relationship with his clients. Understanding why money matters to you is important to him. He firmly believes that finances can be a powerful tool for your life goals.

Michael is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) and also holds his Series 7, Series 66, Series 24. and SIE registrations with LPL Financial as well as his Life, Health, Property and Casualty insurance licenses.

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