Understanding Social Security Benefits at Age 62


Intro
Navigating the world of Social Security can often feel like traversing a maze without a map. When considering your options at age sixty-two, there are various aspects to take into account. What's truly at stake? How does claiming benefits early influence your financial future? As you contemplate stepping into retirement, this guide will shed light on the complexities of Social Security benefits, making it clear and comprehensible.
The decision to claim your Social Security benefits at sixty-two is significant. On one hand, it might seem tempting to seize those funds earlier, but this choice can have rippling effects on your overall lifetime benefits. Ideally, understanding the ins and outs of this system will empower you to make informed decisions, especially when it comes to the crucial elements affecting your retirement planning.
Investment Dictionaries
Glossary of Key Terms
To make the topic more accessible, let’s break down some essential terminology related to Social Security benefits:
- Claiming Age: The age at which you choose to start receiving Social Security benefits, which can range from as early as sixty-two to as late as seventy.
- Full Retirement Age (FRA): The age when you are eligible to receive your full Social Security benefit, which varies based on your birth year. For many, it’s around 66 or 67.
- Monthly Benefit Amount (MBA): The sum of money you receive each month from Social Security, which is determined by your earnings history and the age you claim benefits.
- Early Retirement Reduction: The percentage decrease in your monthly benefit if you choose to claim Social Security before your full retirement age.
- Lifetime Benefits: The total amount you will receive from Social Security over your lifetime, depending on when you claim your benefits.
Investment Jargon Explained
Understanding these terms isn’t just for the sake of knowing; it’s crucial for making sound decisions about your future. For instance, if you claim your benefits at sixty-two, your monthly benefit will likely be lower compared to delaying your claim until your full retirement age. This is what’s known as early retirement reduction.
The concept of lifetime benefits is particularly important to grasp, as it encompasses the entirety of what you will receive, making it clear that early withdrawals come with trade-offs.
"Decisions made when you’re sixty-two can shape your financial landscape for decades to come."
In the context of defining your retirement strategy, solidifying your understanding of these terms will set a foundation for deeper exploration of Social Security and its implications. As we proceed, we will tackle other pertinent topics that further illuminate this complex landscape.
Prolusion to Social Security Benefits
Understanding the intricacies of Social Security benefits is more than just a matter of numbers. For many, these benefits serve as a financial lifeline in retirement, helping to cover essential living costs after years of hard work. Since the program plays such a crucial role in the lives of retirees, comprehending its mechanisms is vital.
When folks reach the point of considering retirement, social security becomes a prominent piece of the puzzle. It's important to grasp not only the amount one might receive but also the implications of claiming these benefits at an early age, specifically at sixty-two. The decisions made at this juncture can alter one's financial landscape significantly.
The Role of Social Security in Retirement
Social Security acts as a safety net, providing a source of income to replace a portion of the earnings a worker had during their employment years. This income can influence lifestyle choices and financial stability throughout the golden years.
- Pillar of Financial Security: For many retirees, Social Security accounts for a substantial part of their income. Without these benefits, the struggle to manage daily expenses could become a reality.
- Inflation Adjustments: Social Security is indexed to inflation, which means it adjusts annually to help beneficiaries keep pace with rising living costs. This aspect is particularly important given that the purchasing power can diminish over time.
- Longevity Insurance: Given the increasing life expectancy, security benefits can act as a safeguard against outliving one's savings. Individuals who plan for potentially long retirement periods may find this assurance invaluable.
"Social Security can bridge the gap between what you have saved and what you need to live comfortably."
Despite these advantages, the process of claiming benefits can be complex and filled with nuances. Many retirees face the question of whether to take benefits early or wait until a later age for potentially higher payouts. The choice around this can depend on various factors, such as personal savings, health status, and projected longevity.
Thus, as we explore the broader topic of Social Security benefits at sixty-two, it is crucial to dissect its role and mission in the lives of retirees. Understanding this foundation will assist individuals in making informed decisions about their retirement planning and financial well-being.
Understanding Early Retirement
Early retirement is quite the eye-catcher for many individuals approaching their golden years. It often sounds enticing—imagine hanging up your work boots at sixty-two instead of waiting for a few more years. However, it’s crucial to grasp this concept well to make enlightened choices about your future. The implications of claiming Social Security benefits at this age are profound, requiring careful navigation through the world of retirement.
When we talk about early retirement, it’s more than just leaving the workforce. It serves as a pivotal point in one’s financial journey. For many, the notion of retiring early comes with the hope of leisure and the chance to tick thrilling activities off their bucket list. Yet, it’s vital to pair this ambition with a keen understanding of its consequences on financial stability—specifically, how early withdrawals might shrink Social Security benefits.
Furthermore, individuals must weigh various considerations regarding their personal finances, health status, and career longevity. Early retirement can be a double-edged sword: on one side, one may enjoy extra years of freedom, while on the other, they risk compromising their long-term financial security. It's a balancing act, but a thoughtfully constructed plan can help anyone manage the transition effectively.
Defining Early Retirement Age
So, what exactly is the early retirement age? Typically, it refers to the age when individuals become eligible to start receiving Social Security benefits before reaching full retirement age. In most cases, this age is sixty-two, but it's pivotal to remember that claiming benefits early effectively reduces the total monthly payout. Each month, before reaching what is considered your full retirement age, bears a penalty in the form of lower benefits for the rest of your life.
The Social Security Administration delineates specific guidelines around this, which apply universally. You might think you are doing alright by starting the cash flow sooner, but later on, keep in mind how that early start can pinch your benefit amounts at the end of the day.
Age Sixty-Two: The Threshold
Age sixty-two stands as a significant marker in the landscape of Social Security. At this age, individuals have the choice to step into the world of retirement benefits, and for many, it’s a tempting offer. Yet, this choice comes with a crucial downside—benefits are permanently reduced. The difference can be stark; taking benefits at sixty-two means forfeiting a substantial portion of what you might receive if you waited until full retirement age.
For instance, the reduction is calculated based on how many months before your full retirement age you decide to claim your benefits. So if your full retirement age is sixty-six, that early claim could lead to a cut of about twenty-five percent of your potential monthly benefits.
While the strategy of claiming Social Security at sixty-two may mean immediate cash flow, it’s essential to weigh the long-term impacts on your overall retirement strategy.
This threshold represents not only a choice of timing but also the crux of one of the most impactful financial decisions to be made in your life. The gravity of this decision reinforces the value of comprehensive planning and gives you more leverage over how your retirement unfolds.


Calculating Monthly Benefits
Understanding how monthly Social Security benefits are calculated is crucial for anyone considering claiming benefits at age sixty-two. This part of the article seeks to illuminate the various elements that play a role in determining those payments, and how these can significantly impact your financial future.
Factors Affecting Benefit Amounts
Several key factors directly influence the amount you receive each month. Knowing these can aid in decision-making and strategizing for your retirement. Here are some of the most crucial items:
- Work History: The total number of years you’ve worked and the earnings during those years are foundational in determining your benefits. Generally, you need to have worked for at least 10 years, collecting a minimum of 40 credits, to qualify for benefits.
- Average Indexed Monthly Earnings (AIME): This figure reflects your earnings adjusted for inflation over your working life. It’s crucial as the Social Security Administration (SSA) uses this number to determine how much you’ll receive.
- Full Retirement Age (FRA): Your FRA is the age at which you are eligible to receive full benefits. For those born in 1960 or later, that age is currently set at 67. Claiming at sixty-two results in reduced benefits compared to those who wait until their FRA.
- Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLAs): These adjustments can affect your benefits every year based on inflation rates. If prices rise significantly, your benefit can also go up, providing some cushioning against inflation.
Every small detail matters. With the right strategy, even minor name adjustments can lead to gaining more in the long run.
The Social Security Formula
The Social Security formula for calculating benefits isn’t as opaque as it might seem at first glance. While it can be a bit technical, having a basic understanding of how benefits are computed helps in planning your application.
The SSA employs a formula where your monthly benefit is derived from your AIME:
- First Tier: 90% of the first $1,115 of your AIME.
- Second Tier: 32% of AIME over $1,115 and up to $6,721.
- Third Tier: 15% of any amount over $6,721.
This tiered structure ensures that individuals with lower lifetime earnings receive a greater percentage of their earnings compared to those with higher lifetime earnings. So, if you have historically low earnings, the system provides a meaningful benefit.
"Your benefits are based on a complex formula that ultimately aims to provide more support to those who needed it the most."
Impact of Earnings Record
Your earnings record is a crucial piece in the puzzle of calculating your Social Security benefits. It’s not just about having the requisite years but also how much you earned during those years. Higher average earnings have a more favorable impact on your benefit calculation. Here’s how your earnings history comes into play:
- High-Earning Years: Typically, the SSA considers only your highest 35 years of earnings. If you worked for less than 35 years, zeros are factored in, reducing your average income and, subsequently, your benefits.
- Consistency Counts: A steady income stream over many years usually yields better results. Sudden fluctuations, such as long gaps in employment, lower-paying jobs, or working part-time late in your career, can affect your AIME negatively.
- Adjusting for Inflation: The SSA adjusts past earnings for inflation using the National Average Wage Index, which means your earlier earnings may be scaled up to reflect current values. This is why keeping a consistent employment record can be financially advantageous.
In sum, how much you earn and when you earn it plays a substantial part in determining your monthly benefits. Accordingly, putting thought into your work life as you approach the age of sixty-two is essential.
The Impact of Claiming Early
Understanding the influence of claiming Social Security benefits at age sixty-two is vital for anyone approaching retirement. This decision often sets the tone for a retiree's financial future. Early claiming bears significant consequences, primarily affecting the amount of monthly benefits received. Given that this is the earliest age eligible for claiming, the implications are multifaceted.
Permanent Benefit Reduction
One of the immediate repercussions of claiming at sixty-two is the permanent reduction in monthly benefits. Social Security benefits are calculated based on an individual’s highest 35 years of earnings, and claiming early can mean missing out on the full benefit amount. Specifically, retirement benefits reduce by about 25% for those who choose to take them at this age compared to their full retirement age, which typically ranges from 66 to 67, depending on the birth year.
To put it plainly, if your whole benefit amount is seen as 100%, claiming at sixty-two might take you down to 75%, and this decrease is not a temporary setback. This reduction lasts for as long as you continue to receive benefits. It’s a long game of dollars and cents that can add up significantly over your retirement years.
Furthermore, it is worth noting that the Social Security Administration uses a calculation process that includes your 35 highest earning years. Claiming early could cement lower averages for future calculations. If you’re still earning higher wages than some of your earlier years, delaying your claim could help average in those higher amounts and raise your eventual monthly benefit.
Comparison to Delayed Retirement Credits
On the flip side, if you decide to forgo benefits until reaching your full retirement age or beyond—say until age seventy—you could reap the rewards of delayed retirement credits. For each year you delay your claim past your full retirement age, you earn credits that increase your benefit amount by a significant percentage. This increase is typically around 8% per year.
The beauty of this choice is that it can lead to a much more robust monthly income in later years. If you’re in good health and foresee working longer or having sufficient savings to bridge the gap, delaying benefits could be a wise move. Think about it this way: while you’re waiting, your benefits are growing, and that can lead to a much larger check when you do decide to start drawing your Social Security.
“Claiming early might feel like getting the candy first, but a little patience could pay off with a larger, sweeter treat down the road.”
In summary, deciding when to claim benefits at age sixty-two is no light matter. It demands careful consideration of permanent reductions and potential gains from delayed credits. Each individual's circumstances—like health, financial needs, and employment status—play a pivotal role in determining the best path forward. Take a moment, weigh your options, and remember: this decision could echo through your retirement years.
Strategies for Maximizing Benefits
When nearing retirement age, particularly at sixty-two, making informed choices about Social Security benefits is paramount. This section delves into strategies that allow retirees to maximize the benefits they receive, offering insights tailored for each individual's financial landscape. The approach one takes can significantly alter both the amount of monthly payments they’ll secure and the overall financial health of their retirement years.
Assessing Your Personal Situation
Understanding your unique situation is the cornerstone to crafting a personalized strategy. It involves more than just looking at age; you need to consider various factors that affect your potential benefits. For instance, look closely at:
- Work History: Have you had a career filled with high earnings, or have your wages been more modest? This can influence your benefit amount.
- Health Status: Consider your health and family history. If you expect to live longer, delaying your benefits might yield more financial advantage in the long run.
- Current Financial Needs: Are you in urgent need of income to cover immediate expenses, or do you have other resources you can tap into? This can determine the necessity of taking benefits at sixty-two versus waiting.
By taking stock of these elements, it lets you sit down and weigh all the pros and cons of claiming your benefits right away versus delaying them for a bit.


Timing Your Claim
The timing of when you claim your Social Security benefits is crucial. If you choose to start receiving benefits at age sixty-two, bear in mind that your monthly payment will be reduced.
This section provides a concise outline:
- Claiming Early (Age 62): Generally results in significant reductions compared to full retirement age benefits. This could be anywhere from 25% to 30% less.
- Full Retirement Age (FRA): Often falls at 66 or 67, depending on your birth year. If you wait until then, you can claim your full monthly amount.
- Delayed Retirement Credits: If you can afford to delay benefits past your FRA, you earn credits that increase your benefit by a certain percentage for every year you wait.
Considering these options can help you make a calculated decision. Setting a timeline and aligning it with your financial situation aids in deciding the best course of action.
Working While Receiving Benefits
Sometimes, the financial demands of life compel retirees to work even after they start claiming their Social Security. This might seem counterintuitive, but working while receiving benefits can impact your finances in notable ways. When you’re still earning money:
- Benefits Reduction: If your earnings exceed certain thresholds, you will face a reduction in your benefits. For instance, if you earn more than $21,240 in 2023, they will reduce your benefit by $1 for every $2 earned over the limit.
- Potential Increase in Future Benefits: Continuing to work and earning higher income may enhance your benefits amount for future payments, as Social Security calculates your benefits based on your highest 35 years of earnings.
"Working while receiving benefits can create a double-edged sword—be mindful of how your earnings could affect monthly payouts."
Hence, examine your situation closely. If you find work that aligns with your goals and does not overly impact your monthly benefits, it could serve as an effective bridge while you transition into full retirement.
Tax Implications of Social Security Benefits
When considering Social Security benefits at age sixty-two, it is critical to grasp the wider implications of taxes on these funds. Understanding the tax treatment that pertains to Social Security can save retirees a lot of money and facilitate better planning for their overall retirement income strategy. This section delves into how Social Security benefits are taxed, as well as the practical steps to prepare for any tax consequences that may arise.
Understanding How Benefits Are Taxed
Many retirees may not be aware that a portion of their Social Security benefits could be subject to federal income tax. If an individual's combined income exceeds a certain threshold, up to 85% of their benefits may be taxed.
Combined income is calculated by summing up your adjusted gross income, non-taxable interest, and half of your Social Security benefits. Here’s a breakdown of the income thresholds to keep in mind:
- Individuals: If your combined income is between $25,000 and $34,000, you might owe tax on 50% of your benefit.
- Married couples filing jointly: If your combined income is between $32,000 and $44,000, the same rule applies.
- Beyond those limits, up to 85% of benefits can be taxed, which can hit the pocket hard if you’re depending on these funds.
"It's not how much you make; it's how much you keep that matters in retirement."
A common misconception is that the entire amount individuals receive is not taxable. Choosing when to claim benefits can influence your taxable income. If claiming at age sixty-two while still working, that additional income could push you into a higher tax bracket, potentially increasing the percentage of your benefits that are taxable.
Planning for Tax Consequences
Effective retirement planning includes anticipating the tax ramifications of receiving Social Security benefits. Here are some strategies to minimize taxes:
- Delay Benefits: If financially stable enough, consider delaying your benefits until your full retirement age or even beyond. This can increase your monthly payout and may lessen the tax burden at this point.
- Diversify Income Sources: Relying solely on Social Security for income can be risky. By diversifying through savings accounts, investments, or pensions, you can manage your tax liability better.
- Tax-Advantaged Accounts: Make use of tax-advantaged accounts such as Roth IRAs, where withdrawals are not taxed, providing flexibility when combined with Social Security.
- Consulting a Professional: Engaging with a financial planner or tax advisor can provide tailored advice, ensuring you are making the most informed decisions.
In sum, understanding the tax implications not only helps in crafting a more robust retirement strategy but it also prepares you for any unanticipated tax burdens during your retirement years.
Social Security in the Broader Context of Retirement Planning
Social Security benefits play a vital role in the overall landscape of retirement planning. It is not just a safety net; for many, it represents a significant portion of their retirement income. Understanding how these benefits intertwine with other retirement income sources is crucial for anyone approaching their golden years.
Integration with Other Retirement Income Sources
When we think about retirement income, Social Security is typically just one piece of the puzzle. Other sources include pensions, personal savings, and investments such as IRAs or 401(k)s. Integrating these streams creates a clearer picture of one’s financial future. Here are a few ways in which this integration can be beneficial:
- Holistic Financial Planning: Taking all sources into account helps in forming a well-rounded financial strategy. If Social Security is lower than expected, the reliance on retirement savings should be adjusted accordingly.
- Timing Benefits Claims: Understanding how Social Security fits in can guide decisions on when to begin claiming benefits. If savings are sufficient to wait until the recommended age—67 for many—it’s smarter as it maximizes monthly benefits.
- Tax Optimization: Depending on your income, Social Security benefits can be taxed, while other sources may not. Having a mix might help in effectively managing your tax bracket.
You can see how each source influences the others. If someone has a solid pension plan but a modest Social Security benefit, they may feel less pressure to draw from their savings quickly. Conversely, if Social Security forms the bulk of their income, they might need to adjust spending habits to not outlive their savings.
Creating a Sustainable Withdrawal Strategy
Developing a sustainable withdrawal strategy is key for ensuring that your retirement resources last. A careful plan can mitigate the risk of outliving your funds, especially in the era of increasing longevity. Here are some considerations:
- Assess Withdrawal Rates: The commonly referenced rule is the 4% rule. But it can vary based on personal circumstances and market conditions. Thus, it’s prudent to revisit your strategy often and adjust as needed.
- Diversifying Withdrawals: Relying excessively on Social Security or one type of account can be risky. Spreading withdrawals across different sources helps maintain a balanced financial approach.
- Power of Compounding Interest: For those who still have investment accounts, delaying withdrawals can allow for compound interest to increase the total nest egg’s size. This is particularly effective when integrated with the timing of Social Security benefits.
Planning ahead can save plenty of headaches when retirement ages approach.
Understanding how Social Security integrates within the larger retirement framework can illuminate paths toward a more secure financial future.


In summary, Social Security benefits shouldn’t be seen in isolation. Their integration with other income streams and a well-thought-out withdrawal strategy can be transformative. This context encourages individuals to take a step back and view their finances in a broader light, ensuring their financial stability well into retirement.
Common Misconceptions about Social Security
Understanding Social Security is like peeling an onion; there are layers that can be tricky, and many misconceptions often cloud the real picture. Addressing these myths is crucial for anyone considering their Social Security benefits at age sixty-two. Misunderstandings can lead not only to confusion but also to poor financial decisions that might haunt retirees later.
One of the core benefits of clearing up these misconceptions is empowering individuals to make informed decisions. With Social Security being a significant lifeline for many retirees, having accurate information can help in maximizing one's benefits and ensuring financial stability.
Debunking Myths Surrounding Early Claims
When it comes to early claims, several myths circulate that can lead individuals astray. One common belief is that claiming benefits at age sixty-two means you're going to miss out on a large chunk of money during retirement. While it’s true that taking benefits early does reduce monthly payments, it’s equally important to evaluate the big picture.
For instance, if a retiree has health issues or lacks other retirement income, taking benefits early might be the best choice for financial well-being. It's not just about the numbers; it's about the whole situation. The mantra "better late than never" does not always apply.
Moreover, many people think that once they begin receiving benefits, they can no longer work. This belief is misguiding. Indeed, while there are earnings limits that can affect your benefits temporarily if you earn above a certain threshold, many retirees still find ways to supplement their income without sacrificing their benefits entirely.
Understanding Social Security Solvency Debate
The solveny of Social Security is a hot potato topic that stirs debate among both retirees and policymakers. Some argue that Social Security will run out of funds, leading to substantial cuts in benefits. Others assert that enhancements can be made to ensure its longevity.
Understanding this debate is essential. While recent reports do indicate financial challenges facing the Social Security system, changes like adjustments in payroll tax rates and benefit formulas can be made to avert potential shortfalls.
The potential impact of this debate on beneficiaries is profound. Here’s a simple breakdown of points to consider:
- Age of Claiming: With the way discussions are going, individuals who claim benefits later might find themselves better off due to possible future adjustments surprising the benefits.
- Political Decisions: Policy changes can directly affect the solvency of Social Security—whether tweaks in tax rates or adjustments in how benefits are calculated.
- Personal Planning: It’s vital to stay informed about these developments because they shape the landscape of retirement planning.
"Understanding the myths surrounding Social Security can lead to more effective retirement planning as it addresses the fears and misconceptions that often cloud decision-making."
Preparing for Your Application
Navigating the world of Social Security benefits can feel like trying to find your way through a dense fog. As you read this article, it’s essential to grasp the significance of preparing for your application, especially if you’re considering claiming benefits at age sixty-two. This stage lays the groundwork for the entirety of the claiming process, affecting both your immediate financial landscape and your long-term retirement strategy.
When considering Social Security, being prepared isn’t merely a suggestion; it’s a necessity. A well-prepared application can streamline the process, reduce the potential for delays, and help ensure you receive the benefits you deserve. Gathering critical documentation and understanding the application steps are pivotal.
Documentation Required
Before you even start the application process, you’ll need to gather various documents to support your claim. Having everything ready will make your application process smoother and more efficient. Here’s a list of the kinds of documents you might need:
- Birth Certificate: This verifies your age, which is crucial in determining when you can claim.
- Social Security Card: Required for identification.
- Proof of Earnings: W-2 forms or self-employment tax returns for the previous two years can establish your earnings record.
- Marriage Certificate or Divorce Decree: If applicable, these documents help establish benefits based on a spouse's work record.
- Military Service Records: If you have served in the military, they are necessary to ascertain additional benefits.
Having these documents readily at hand will not only facilitate your application but also help you avoid unnecessary heartache. Time wasted in chasing down paperwork can be crucial, especially when you're ready to claim your benefits.
Navigating the Application Process
Once you’ve gathered all required documentation, the next step is to navigate through the application process itself. Understanding the various avenues for applying can significantly reduce frustration. Here are the primary methods:
- Online Application: The Social Security Administration offers a user-friendly online platform to submit your application. This is often the quickest method, allowing you to complete your application at your convenience without waiting in line.
- Telephone Application: If you prefer a more personal touch or have questions, calling the Social Security Administration can help. You can speak with a representative who can guide you through the process, ensuring that you don’t miss crucial steps.
- In-Person Appointment: Making an appointment at your local Social Security office is another option, though it may involve longer wait times. This method also provides an opportunity to directly ask questions and seek clarification.
When completing any application, accuracy is paramount. A small mistake could delay the process or impact your benefit calculation. Thus, it is advisable to double-check all information before submission.
"Preparation is the key to success." - This age-old adage holds true even in the realm of Social Security benefits.
Approaching your application with the right mindset and the necessary documentation will make a significant difference. Ultimately, careful preparation enables you to approach your retirement transition with confidence and clarity.
Culmination
In the journey toward retirement, understanding Social Security benefits at age sixty-two serves as a crucial compass for individuals contemplating their financial future. As the initial point at which many can claim benefits, this age often catalyzes a myriad of decisions that could have lasting implications. The essence of this article crystallizes around the essence of making informed decisions, particularly in a landscape where much is at stake.
Making an Informed Decision
When approaching the decision to claim Social Security benefits at sixty-two, there are several key factors to weigh carefully:
- Benefit Reduction: Opting to claim early results in reduced monthly benefits, a permanent penalty that could lead to significant losses over time.
- Longevity Considerations: Individual health and family history can play a role in deciding whether to claim early or delay for increased future payouts.
- Alternatives for Income: Exploring other retirement income options helps to understand how Social Security fits into the broader financial picture.
- Tax Implications: Being aware of how your benefits will be taxed can affect your overall retirement budget.
This clarity not only stems from understanding one’s unique financial situation but also from being aware of how early claiming intricately ties into the individual's long-term strategy. Those who take the time to gather information and reflect on personal conditions are likely to make better decisions.
Moreover, the importance of seeking professional advice cannot be overemphasized. Engaging with financial advisors can unveil nuanced perspectives and insights, further enhancing one’s understanding.
"Informed decisions pave the way towards sustainable retirement. It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about crafting a narrative that aligns with your goals and values."
Ultimately, the choice to claim at sixty-two is not just a financial leap—it is an opportunity to craft a secure future. Balancing the immediate gains against potential future needs is essential. With comprehensive knowledge and thoughtful consideration, retirees can navigate the Social Security landscape more confidently, ensuring that their choices will support a fulfilling retirement experience.