Top 5 Social Security Secrets Every 60-Year-Old Needs to Know

Sep 9, 2025

Discover the hidden complexities of Social Security that could save retirees tens of thousands. Learn how maximizing spousal and survivor benefits can be a game changer for couples. Explore the impact of taxes on your benefits and how smart planning can reduce that burden. Understand the importance of separating retirement and claiming decisions to boost your financial strategy. Get ready to transform your retirement by mastering essential Social Security secrets!

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INSIGHT

Decide What You’re Optimizing For

Social Security can be optimized for four different goals: longevity insurance, spouse protection, legacy, or investment returns.
Your chosen goal will determine the best claiming age and strategy for your retirement plan.

ADVICE

Factor Opportunity Cost Into Break-Evens

When delaying benefits, factor in the opportunity cost of withdrawing investments while you wait.
Compare lost compound growth from your accounts to potential higher Social Security checks before deciding to delay.

ADVICE

Leverage Spousal & Survivor Benefits

Use spousal benefits (up to 50% of primary's FRA benefit) and delayed survivor benefits when one spouse has a low earnings record.
Remember an ex-spouse from a 10+ year marriage can still qualify for spousal/survivor benefits.

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The hidden complexities of Social Security could cost retirees tens of thousands over a lifetime. While it may seem like a simple income source, the right strategy can dramatically improve your financial security.

Claiming isn’t one-size-fits-all. Protecting a spouse, guarding against longevity risk, or maximizing investments each call for a different approach. Traditional breakeven analyses often miss key factors like the opportunity cost of using investments while waiting for benefits.

Spousal and survivor benefits can be game-changers—especially for couples with different earning histories. Even divorced individuals from long marriages may have powerful options.

Taxes add another layer. Up to 85% of your benefits can be taxable, but with smart planning, that burden can shrink. And if you work while claiming early, your benefits may be reduced, erasing the advantage.

Most importantly: retiring and claiming benefits are separate decisions. Your Social Security continues to grow whether you work or not, creating opportunities for better coordination across income sources and better after-tax income.

Discover how mastering these Social Security secrets can transform your retirement strategy and your peace of mind.

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Advisory services are offered through Root Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Viewing this content does not create an advisory relationship. We do not provide tax preparation or legal services. Always consult an investment, tax or legal professional regarding your specific situation.

The strategies, case studies, and examples discussed may not be suitable for everyone. They are hypothetical and for illustrative and educational purposes only. They do not reflect actual client results and are not guarantees of future performance. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal.

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