Would it be better for you to start getting Social Security benefits early at a smaller monthly rate over a longer period? Would it make more sense for you to wait for a larger monthly rate that you will receive over less time because you waited? These are some of the questions individuals grapple with when thinking about retirement benefits through Social Security.

Jack Myers with Social Security explains the answer is personal and depends on many factors such as your current and anticipated cash needs or your health and family history on longevity.

Myers notes it could potentially even impact the amount your surviving spouse gets.  

In addition to looking at your own personalized estimates through your mySocialSecurity account, you can also find Social Security publications and other general information about benefits at www.ssa.gov/retirement. You can even apply for retirement benefits online when the time comes.