Because the presidential and congressional elections are on everyone’s mind, more than a few people have sent me emails saying something like this: “I’m afraid that this upcoming election will lead to dramatic changes to Social Security. So even though I didn’t want to file for Social Security for a few more years, I’m going to do it now so that I am grandfathered into the current system and no president or Congress will pull the rug out from under me!” And then they ask me if I think that’s a good idea.
And here is my answer: NEVER make a decision about when to start your Social Security benefits based on politics. Instead, make that decision based on your financial situation, your anticipated longevity, your marital status, and other personal considerations discussed often in this column.
