When to Start Social Security: Retirement Benefits Spreadsheet

Thinking about when to start your Social Security benefits? This spreadsheet makes it simple. With just a few entries, you’ll see how claiming early or waiting longer impacts your monthly check. Plus, you’ll get a big-picture view of how your choices play out over time—up to age 100.

You’ll get two easy-to-use spreadsheets—one for those born in 1960 or later and another for those born between 1943 and 1959—aligned with Social Security’s guidelines. Step-by-step instructions walk you through everything.