Retirement Social Security

9 Smart Social Security Moves Most Retirees Miss

Stretch your retirement benefits further with these commonly overlooked strategies.

By Michelle Smith

Edited by Lisa Dammeyer

Updated Jan. 14, 2026

Social Security can be as easy as applying for your benefit, then smiling when the amount hits your bank account each month. But some careful strategizing can help you maximize your senior benefits and ensure your Social Security dollars last as long as possible.

Keep reading to learn some key financial strategies that will help you make the most of your monthly benefit.

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Calculate the highest spousal benefit

As one member of a married partnership, you're eligible to claim up to a certain percentage of your spouse's benefit if you didn't work. And if you did work, you can still claim your benefit based on your spouse's earnings if theirs were higher.

Instead of automatically assuming you should apply for benefits based on your own earnings record, do some research to make sure doing so gets you the best benefit.

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Coordinate the timing of spousal benefits

Along with deciding whose earnings record will get you the best benefit, you and your spouse should decide when to claim benefits. While you can receive spousal benefits at 62 (as long as your spouse has already claimed theirs), you get a higher percentage the closer you are to your full retirement age when you claim.

If possible, you might consider having one spouse claim benefits while the other spouse waits. That way, you'll still have a steady benefit-based income while anticipating the boost of another supplemental benefit later on.

Use a bridge strategy

Research shows that waiting to claim Social Security benefits until you hit age 70 means your monthly payment is 77% higher than it would be if you claimed right when you were eligible. Strategically withdrawing money from your savings account can tide you over until your benefits come through while ensuring you get a bigger Social Security payment in your 70s.

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Take taxes into account

Your Social Security benefits aren't automatically taxed unless your income is over a set threshold ($25,000 for individuals or $32,000 for married couples filing jointly). To avoid bumping yourself into a higher tax bracket than you can afford, be strategic about withdrawing money from savings accounts. Balancing withdrawals from tax-advantaged accounts like 401(k)s with withdrawals from Roth IRAs will help.

The good news is that no matter how high your income is, only up to 85% of your total benefit amount can be taxed. At least 15% will remain tax-free.

Balance continuing to work with benefit deductions

While you can continue to work full time while receiving Social Security benefits, you could experience a benefits cut if you're making too much money. (The reduction will end once you reach your full retirement age, even if you're still working and your income exceeds the threshold.)

At the same time, working a higher-paying job for longer will push your benefits amount higher since it's calculated on the average earnings of your highest-paying jobs. Whether you choose to stay in the workforce to boost your income or leave to avoid benefits cuts, make sure to crunch the numbers ahead of time so you make the most profitable choice.

Consider taking survivor benefits

Survivor benefits are available to the spouse, ex-spouse, parents, and dependents of a deceased worker. Your relationship to the worker determines the amount you will receive, but it can range from 71.5% to 100% of their benefit amount.

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Use a side gig to increase your earnings record

If you'd rather not remain in the workforce longer than you have to but want to increase your earnings average, consider adding a part-time job to your schedule. Your bottom line will benefit from the income boost right now, and your future self will appreciate the increased benefits check too.

Think about hitting pause on benefits if you've already applied

Did you receive a reduced benefits check because you started taking benefits before your full retirement age (FRA)? Once you hit your FRA, you can temporarily pause benefits, which will up your benefits check by at least 8% each year you're paused.

Bear in mind that pausing your benefits also stops your spouse from receiving benefits in your name until you resume payments again.

Make sure you aren't missing out on dependent benefits

If you're the primary caretaker for a retired disabled worker — including your spouse, ex-spouse, child, or grandchild — you're likely eligible to receive dependent benefits. The ultimate amount you're entitled to is based largely on your relationship with the disabled worker (as well as on their earnings record and qualifications).

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Bottom line

Using the right strategies to avoid wasting your retirement savings can make all the difference between a good retirement and a great one. If you're not sure how to start planning for your financial future, consider meeting with a fiscal advisor. They can help you devise a smart tax strategy that maximizes your benefit advantages.

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