When to Take Social Security Benefits: Taxes, Timing, and the 13 Year Strategy Explained When you take Social Security benefits can have a lasting impact on your income, taxes, and overall retirement strategy. In this short newsroom interview, David Lundberg breaks down how Social Security works, when benefits can be claimed, how taxes affect your decision, and a long-term 13-year perspective many people overlook when thinking about timing. Rather than focusing on one “perfect age,” this discussion explains why Social Security decisions should be viewed as part of a broader retirement and tax-planning conversation. In this interview, we cover: • When you can start taking Social Security benefits • How claiming age affects monthly income • How Social Security benefits are taxed • Why taxes often change the “best” claiming strategy • The 13-year timing concept and why long-term thinking matters • Common mistakes people make when choosing when to claim This conversation is designed to provide clarity and education, not one-size-fits-all answers. Social Security decisions are highly personal and should be coordinated with taxes, retirement income needs, and long-term planning goals. Who This Video Is For • Individuals approaching retirement • Early retirees planning income bridges • Those confused about Social Security taxes • Anyone wondering when to take Social Security benefits • Viewers looking for a clear, high-level explanation Important Note This video is for educational purposes only and does not constitute personalized financial or tax advice. Individual circumstances vary.