Retirement Social Security

6 Social Security Mistakes You Can't Fix Later (And How To Avoid Them)

A few Social Security decisions can permanently shrink your benefits — here's how to protect your retirement income.

By Adam Palasciano

Edited by Andrea Basse

Updated Dec. 12, 2025

When you build a retirement plan, Social Security is one of the most important decisions you'll make — but it's also one of the easiest areas to slip up. Certain choices, from when you file to how you coordinate benefits with a spouse, can permanently affect your monthly check. And unlike some financial missteps, these mistakes can't always be fixed later. Understanding the rules ahead of time gives you a better chance of maximizing your benefits.

Here are six Social Security mistakes you can't undo — and how to sidestep them with proper planning.

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Claiming SS benefits as early as possible

Claiming at age 62 is tempting, but doing so permanently reduces your monthly benefit by up to 30% compared with waiting until the full retirement age (FRA) of 67, when you're eligible for 100% of your benefit. Waiting until age 70 will increase your benefit even further, by about 8% per year. Claiming too early results in a smaller benefit for life, making early filing one of the most expensive mistakes retirees make.

While the SSA does allow you to withdraw your application within 12 months and repay all benefits received, that option can be limited and is only available once. Before you claim early, consider whether you can afford to delay for a higher lifelong payout.

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Not planning for spousal benefits

Married retirees may fail to coordinate benefits, leaving thousands of dollars on the table over time. Spousal benefits can provide up to 50% of a higher-earning spouse's FRA benefit — but only if you understand how timing and eligibility work.

Filing too early or without comparing both spouses' earnings histories may limit long-term income. Planning these decisions jointly can help ensure the higher benefit lasts as long as possible.

Assuming that SS income will be enough to cover all your expenses

Some retirees mistakenly believe Social Security will replace most of their pre-retirement income, but benefits may not (and probably won't) cover all of their expenses. For most households, Social Security is meant to supplement — not fully fund — retirement spending.

Without personal savings, pensions, or investment income, retirees may face unexpected gaps. Expecting Social Security to shoulder every expense could lead to financial strain later in life.

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Not planning for taxes

Up to 85% of your Social Security benefits may be taxable, depending on your combined income — which includes half your benefit plus wages, withdrawals, and certain interest.

According to the SSA, single filers with combined income above $25,000 and married couples above $32,000 may owe tax on a portion of their payments. Many retirees may overlook this until it's too late to adjust their withholding or income sources. Factor taxes into your retirement plan early to avoid surprises.

Stating benefits while still working

If you claim Social Security retirement benefits before your FRA while earning income, your benefit may be temporarily reduced.

For 2025, if you are under FRA for the entire year, the earnings limit is $23,400, and the Social Security Administration will withhold $1 for every $2 you earn above that amount. If you reach FRA in 2025, the limit before your birthday month is $62,160, and the reduction is $1 for every $3 earned above that threshold. After you reach your FRA, there is no earnings limit, and your benefit will not be reduced for working.

Failing to monitor your earnings record

Your future Social Security benefit is based on your 35 highest-earning years, so mistakes in your earnings record can cost you for life. Missing income years, incorrect wage entries, or $0 earnings mistakenly reported may significantly lower your benefit.

It's crucial to verify every year of reported earnings — it's your job to check. Reviewing your record regularly ensures your benefit reflects your true work history.

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How to avoid Social Security mistakes

A few proactive steps can help you avoid irreversible errors and make better Social Security decisions.

Review your earnings statement every year

Check your annual earnings for accuracy and confirm that your reported wages match your tax documents. Correcting errors early can ensure a more accurate benefit later.

Run multiple benefit scenarios

Use the SSA's online calculators to estimate benefits at different claiming ages. Comparing outcomes helps you see the long-term impact of delaying or filing early.

Coordinate decisions with your spouse

Married couples should plan together to maximize household income over time. Evaluate who should claim first, whether spousal benefits apply, and how timing may affect survivor benefits.

Bottom line

Social Security is a core part of any retirement plan, but several decisions — including when you claim and how you manage your earnings record — can have lifelong consequences. The best way to protect your income is to stay informed, review your information regularly, and plan ahead to avoid irreversible mistakes.

Taking these steps now can help you maximize your senior benefits and maintain long-term financial stability.

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