
Penelope S. has spent decades working in school administration in Burbank, California. Now that she’s 62, she’s eligible to claim Social Security early. But the numbers are making her anxious.
The decision to claim at 62 instead of waiting comes with a permanent reduction to her monthly check. Over 20 years, that choice could cost her tens of thousands of dollars. But Penelope is tired of working and her husband’s age is also factoring into the decision.