35. Collecting Over $2 Million in Social Security Benefits (And How to Calculate Yours)

Most retirees don’t realize just how valuable Social Security can be—or how much strategy goes into maximizing those benefits.

In this episode, we break down a real-life case study of a couple I work with, let's call them James and Elizabeth. Thanks to a smart claiming strategy, they’re projected to collect over $2.4 million in lifetime Social Security benefits. We’ll walk through:

✔️ Why the higher-earning spouse should consider delaying benefits
✔️ How spousal and survivor benefits can significantly boost lifetime income
✔️ The impact of cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) on long-term benefits
✔️ How to check your Social Security statement and calculate your own benefits

Are you making the most of your Social Security? Learn how to run your own numbers and avoid leaving money on the table.

Episode Resources

Social Security Administration

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