Can I spend my savings to delay Social Security?

Asked by: Mr. Jovan Torp  |  Last update: November 30, 2025
Score: 4.8/5 (51 votes)

If you retire before you start claiming your benefits, you'll need a source of income to bridge the gap between the time your paychecks stop and when your Social Security begins. If you have a sufficient balance, then yes, withdrawing from your savings is a perfectly viable option to consider.

Should I use savings to delay Social Security?

Many Americans don't realize they can increase Social Security monthly payments by adopting a "bridge" strategy. Leveraging funds in a 401(k) in early retirement to delay taking Social Security benefits may increase your monthly payment by hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Does Social Security check your savings account?

Let's Summarize…

If you're receiving or applying for SSI, the SSA has the legal authority to check your bank accounts to ensure you meet the program's strict resource limits. These reviews help the government ensure that benefits go to those who truly need them.

How do I delay my Social Security payment?

You can request a Social Security suspension over the phone (800-722-1213), in writing or in person at your local Social Security office.

Is delaying Social Security benefits still a good deal?

If you wait to claim, you allow your benefit to grow, and that can significantly increase your retirement income. But delaying Social Security isn't a cut-and-dried decision. It's important to take your personal situation into account as you weigh the factors that could influence your decision.

Should You Draw Down Your Portfolio to Delay Social Security?

19 related questions found

What is the break even point for delaying Social Security?

Waiting until your full retirement age of 67 means you'd break even when you're a little over 78 1/2 years old. If you wait until age 70 to collect Social Security, you would be a little under age 80 1/2 to break even.

At what age is Social Security no longer taxed?

Social Security income can be taxable no matter how old you are. It all depends on whether your total combined income exceeds a certain level set for your filing status. You may have heard that Social Security income is not taxed after age 70; this is false.

Can you put a hold on Social Security payments?

If you apply for benefits and we have not yet determined that you are entitled, you may voluntarily suspend benefits for any month you have not received a payment.

Should I use my IRA to delay taking Social Security?

A growing body of research shows that flipping the order may be wiser. You could lower the lifetime tax bite, collect years of higher benefits and extend your portfolio's longevity if you delay Social Security and take larger IRA withdrawals in the early years of retirement.

How do I get the $16728 Social Security bonus?

Specifically, a rumored $16,728 bonus that had people wondering if it was true or not in 2024? Sadly, there's no real “bonus” that retirees who receive Social Security can collect.

How much money can I have in a savings account while on Social Security?

Money In The Bank And SSDI

The SSDI program does not limit how much money you can have in the bank because there are no resource limits as you find with SSI.

Does Social Security track your spending?

Representative payees are required to maintain detailed and accurate records of all funds received and spent in order to provide a true accounting to SSA. A detailed record of expenditures may include: Receipts. Bank statements (including electronic versions)

Does the government know if you have a savings account?

The Short Answer: Yes. Share: The IRS probably already knows about many of your financial accounts, and the IRS can get information on how much is there. But, in reality, the IRS rarely digs deeper into your bank and financial accounts unless you're being audited or the IRS is collecting back taxes from you.

Does Social Security look at your savings account?

The SSA examines resources that count toward the allowable limit, such as checking, savings, and money market accounts.

What should you not say to Social Security?

Never bring up alcohol or drug use, criminal history, a family member's disability or unemployment, or similar topics unless specifically prompted. However, if the ALJ directly inquires about any of these matters, respond truthfully.

How many people delay Social Security?

Research has found only about 8% of beneficiaries delay until age 70, the highest possible age to claim benefits, according to Ghilarducci. Because Social Security benefits are one of the few sources of guaranteed income for many retirees, having smaller monthly checks can make them more financially vulnerable.

Is delaying Social Security worth it?

While you can start as early as age 62, waiting a few years or until you reach your full retirement age can substantially increase the amount you receive over your lifetime.

Should I withdraw from my 401k to delay Social Security?

If you retire before you start claiming your benefits, you'll need a source of income to bridge the gap between the time your paychecks stop and when your Social Security begins. If you have a sufficient balance, then yes, withdrawing from your savings is a perfectly viable option to consider.

At what age do you get 100% of your Social Security?

For anyone born 1960 or later, full retirement benefits are payable at age 67.

Can I suspend my Social Security and restart later?

You can suspend Social Security benefits as many times as you like, provided you are within the period between full retirement age and age 70.

What are the three ways you can lose your Social Security?

Indeed, here are three ways you can lose at least part of your Social Security benefit.
  • No. 1: Keep working while taking benefits early. ...
  • No. 2: Be a substantially lower-earning spouse. ...
  • No. 3: Be alive in 2034. ...
  • Social Security still provides an important foundation for retirement.

How do I freeze my Social Security?

This is done by calling our National 800 number (Toll Free 1-800-772-1213 or at our TTY number at 1-800-325-0778). Once requested, any automated telephone and electronic access to your Social Security record is blocked.

When my husband dies, do I get his Social Security and mine?

You cannot claim your deceased spouse's benefits in addition to your own retirement benefits. Social Security only will pay one—survivor or retirement.

At what age do seniors stop paying federal taxes?

Taxes aren't determined by age, so you will never age out of paying taxes. People who are 65 or older at the end of 2024 have to file a return for tax year 2024 (which is due in 2025) if their gross income is $16,550 or higher. If you're married filing jointly and both 65 or older, that amount is $32,300.