If you or a loved one rely on medical supplies or deal with chronic health conditions, knowing when to claim Social Security benefits can make a significant financial difference. The timing of your claim affects your monthly benefit amount and how well you can cover recurring medical expenses in retirement.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through key factors to consider when choosing the right time to start receiving Social Security benefits, especially if healthcare costs are a priority.

Social Security offers flexibility in when you start receiving benefits:

• Early (Age 62): You can start collecting benefits at 62, but your monthly check will be reduced permanently. This may help if you're facing immediate medical costs, but long-term income may be lower.

• Full Retirement Age (FRA): Depending on your birth year, FRA is between 66 and 67. At this age, you get 100% of your benefit.

• Delayed (Up to Age 70): For every year you delay past FRA, your benefits increase (up to 8% annually). This is a good option if you’re healthy and want to maximize income for future healthcare needs.

If you're managing a chronic illness, disability, or rely on regular medical equipment such as CPAP machines, mobility aids, or wound care supplies, claiming earlier may help offset out-of-pocket costs.

For individuals on a fixed income, Social Security benefits may be crucial in budgeting for:

• Durable medical equipment

• Prescription costs

• In-home healthcare

• Specialized supplies not covered by Medicare

If you're under full retirement age and unable to work due to a medical condition, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) might be the right path. SSDI benefits can transition into regular retirement benefits once you reach FRA.

Tip: SSDI recipients may also qualify for Medicare after 24 months, helping reduce your healthcare expenses even more.

Medicare eligibility begins at age 65. If you delay Social Security until after this, ensure you’re still enrolled in Medicare to avoid penalties and lapses in coverage. Coordinating both programs strategically can help optimize your income and healthcare access.

The Social Security Administration provides online calculators to estimate your benefits based on different retirement ages. But since health expenses are such a key concern, consider talking with a financial advisor who understands both Social Security planning and medical budgeting.

Choosing when to claim Social Security is a personal decision—but for those with ongoing healthcare needs or frequent medical supply purchases, earlier access to benefits may offer much-needed support.

At SafeWell Medical Supply, we understand the financial pressures of managing health. Our goal is to provide affordable, reliable medical equipment to help you stay independent and comfortable—at any stage of retirement.

Visit our online store for affordable options on mobility aids, respiratory supplies, and more. We're here to help you every step of the way.