WHY WE ARE TAKING SOCIAL SECURITY AT 62! THE MATH, REASONING, & QUALITY OF LIFE! FRUGAL LIVING!

As some of you know Paul turned 62 this month. We knew he would be eligible for Social Security. Being that he retired at 55 and has a monthly state pension we knew that taking it at 62 would be a viable option for us. We investigated and thought long and hard about it. We will be sharing why we are taking his SS at 62 and all our thought process behind doing so. We will explain the math, the reasoning, and the quality of life we desire behind our decision.
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[@wmstater]

I retired at 62 and my husband at 63. I had a heart attack at 57 and my husband is a kidney cancer survivor. We are debt free and feel like we made the best decision for us. Tomorrow is promised to no one.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Blessings to you both!

[@judymc4213]

I retired after working 40 plus years as an RN and took SS at age 62.5. I did the math and consulted with my financial advisor. Because I/we live frugally and are debt and mortgage free, our retirements are essentially untouched. I don't regret my decision at all.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Good for you! That’s wonderful!

[@joycejackson9315]

I retired at 62. Debt free , own my home. Invested in that home. Wanted to be at home for my grandkids to get off the bus and have a warm welcoming, a great snack, and a hug. I took the value of that experience x a million and said yes . Im very frugal. Yummy recipe! Great video.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Joyce, love this SO much!! I bet your grandchildren love it too!

[@ojyochan]

That's priceless, I love it😢

[@gail2297]

I agree with Paul. I am 76. I took social security at age 62 and do not regret it. Many my age are still working odd jobs to make ends meet. I haven't had to do that. My needs are met, occasionally some wants, and I'm able to save some. On a little different note, I once knew a man who was the most senior at our plant. He could have banked 6 weeks vacation and had it paid out at retirement. I was surprised that he didn't do that so I asked my boss about it. He said, "Oh, you didn't know? Jim was a prisoner of war. He will always take all his vacation during the year and will never bank it." That left a lasting impression on me.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thank you for sharing your story. It’s great that you are able to enjoy your retirement!

[@cltinturkey]

SUCH an important lesson. Jim understood one of life's most valuable lessons. Time is ALWAYS more important than money. You can earn more money, but you cannot create even one more second of time. I hope you and Jim continue to thrive! Paul and Emmy too!

[@lisas321]

Congratulations Paul!! I took mine at 62 and last day of work is 2/16!! After breast cancer dx in 23 - but fine right now, life is NOT promised and doing like y’all.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Prayers for continued health!!

[@debrabenson4613]

My husband and myself both retired at sixty two, Mortgage paid off and debt free. I also did the math.That's why we both retired at sixty two. We've been doing fine. We actually sold our home moved into a retirement community with amenities and we love it. Financially, we are doing fine.We also live frugal.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

LOVE that! Good for you!

[@EstherWillinski]

Thank you Emmy, I have no comments about social security as we are not there yet, haven't made a decision, but I wanted to reach out to say that my husband was sitting next to me while watching your video today, and I was commenting on the wonderful community of like minded people in this channel thanks to you. The frugal journey is pretty much a solo journey, not something that I talk about with colleagues and friends at all, so it is really nice to come here for support and inspiration. Thank you Emmy and Paul! Dixie is so cute!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Esther, we are so encouraged by your comment! Thank you! We really are so very blessed with you all!

[@chrislear6676]

We had a similar situation. When I turned 62, we did some number crunching as well and discovered that my SS would cover half of just my gas costs for work (I lived an hour away). Add in other related expenses- food (no time to menu plan or shop sales), wear and tear on the car and me (my job was very stressful) and we were close to 75%. Then we looked at the money we could save on food costs bc I would be cooking from scratch (not eating out 3-4 times a week), hanging out clothes instead of using the dryer and some other assorted expenses that I could now do instead of paying someone else. We would still be short $150 a month but we found a way to cover that in about 10 minutes. 😂 3 months later my husband's employer announced they were cutting costs and offered a very generous benefit package (including excellent lifetime health benefits at a very low price) to those employees who voluntarily quit. We didn't even crunch the numbers - he also had a stressful job and worked an hour away. The next day he retired. I will admit it can be scary when you have worked 30-40 years and you make this leap but we have never regretted our decisions.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Yes, so true! It can be scary! You did well!

[@tinasimms8080]

I took my social security at 62 for every reason you spoke about!!!!! I regret NOTHING! For us , my husband and myself, it was the best decision we made. He waited. Retired at 66 and then took his . I invested my social security and we also enjoy a good quality of life and live very well. Still live below our means very comfortably.❤❤❤❤

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

So happy for you both!

[@TracyAMead]

I know I'm late to the game here, but I'm taking care of my 93-year-old blind and deaf Uncle, and I don't have much time to squeeze in a video these days...I, too, have decided to draw my Social Security now (62) because if you do the math, there's no question. If you don't need the money now, just put it into savings and you will be way farther ahead than waiting for a "full retirement." It just makes sense to draw it now, gosh, who knows what's going to happen these days; we are in some scary times. Have a blessed day!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

God Bless you for caring for your Uncle! Thanks for sharing!

[@pspears2153]

Awww, Dixie is just like my son when he was little. He would be doing something so cute and I'd try to sneak up on him with a camera and he would freeze. So funny and sweet! I think folks should take their SS at whatever age suits their family best. Your meal looked delicious! God Bless you both!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

God bless you as well! Thank you!

[@deedeesmith3073]

That recipe looks fabulous ,will try. I took social security at 62 and my husband did the math and said it’s worth taking early . I have not regretted because I can handle money much better than the government. I don’t even trust it will always be around.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thank you so much for sharing!

[@katherinerichardson1767]

I love the line you wrote about handling money better than the government. It made me chuckle.

[@kasession]

I clicked on this video as soon as I saw the thumbnail. I was very curious to know your thought process, and I thank you for letting us in on it. The key is that you crunched the numbers and made a decision that works for you. Considering your health is an important aspect. None of us know what tomorrow will bring. 👍🏿

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks for watching and sharing!

[@HS-hz5su]

I took social security at 62. I ran the numbers and got similar results as yours. A friend of mine who worked at Social Security told me it was the right decision taking it early. No regrets at all.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

That's wonderful!

[@websterhays8352]

You ran the numbers? What does that mean?

[@kathleenbinkley9350]

So close, almost to the finish line then POW! I went on a spending binge 1/29 and spent $100.00 on silly stuff. It was almost as though I was possessed. Getting back on the horse and I will try to make February frugal.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Hang in there! February is a great month to start over!

[@VickyAdams-e6c]

I took SS at 62-my husband at 66. We are both 77 now and since we have no debt, our SS is enough for our monthly bills. We , of course, have to take our RMD from our 401K but haven’t touched any of our Roth. We have kept our Roth invested and hope to continue to do so. If you invest your additional income for the next 15-20 years you will come out way ahead. Who knows what SS will be in future years. I don’t believe any administration will change anything for anyone who is already collecting SS-just for our children and grandchildren. 😢

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks for sharing your story!

[@lorettawatkins5024]

When I turned 62, my health was bad and I wasn't sure how much longer I had to live, so I took social security right away. I'm now 79 due to great medical intervention, but I did what seemed sensible at the time, and that's all you can do, isn't it?

[@wmstater]

I did the same. Health issues at 62 and was unsure how long I'd be around. Debt free and living frugally. Think it was my best decision.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Prayers for continued health!

[@karenrush9532]

Both my husband and myself took ours at 62 and have much more money now then we worked and now we can do things when we want enjoy your self

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Good for you! That’s wonderful!

[@bria2596]

This worked for me. Like Paul, I had a state pension to live on and BIG AND .. I got health insurance as a retirement benefit, so health costs were covered. It was a very good decision - the 60s may be your last good decade of good health. No one can say. So, I lucked out and it has turned out well. I feel very blessed.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Wonderful! Thank you!

[@robynperez8921]

It is the best decision.i took mine at 62..I read and educated myself.peoole who have to work until 67..They may get a lil more but you are 5 yrs ahead.and it catches up..I did exactly what Paul did..im 68 and it worked out perfect.im in good shape,only because I'm frugal,that's the reason I love your channel..only buy what you need. I'm solo and never thought I could retire,and I was able to at 62! I had a collectable car.i sold to car max.2 yrs ago.i have taken that money to travel,and I have been so happy to see and be blessed for travel..God is Good.dont waste money it's hard to get.live frugal.shop thrift stores.do your own nails and hair.dont waste money.cook your own food..It's so worth it! You can afford to see the world...❤

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

What an inspiring comment, Robyn! Thank you for sharing!

[@juliejj2651]

I'm mortgage and debt free for the last 7 yrs and will be taking ss at 62 (in July) this year and I have a pension. I can hardly wait!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

YAY! Good for you!

[@nonna628]

Just copied your ravioli recipe and can't wait to try it. I already love your ravioli lasagna recipe from a while back. I'm 66 and have a pension from my teaching career. During that time, I did not pay into SS. As a result, I was not allowed to collect my full SS benefits from the jobs I paid into before I became a teacher. A bi-partisan bill was passed last month which now allows government workers (teachers, police, fire dept, etc) to collect the benefits to which we were entitled. If this doesn't affect you, just ignore me, but for those of you whom it does affect, please be aware of it as it is truly life saving for many retirees. Emmy and Paul, love your show!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Oh my goodness! So happy the bill was passed!

[@debby-ex6ir]

My husband is a Chartered Acct. here in Canada. We get Canada Pension automatically at age 65 and we get a similar 'social security' at either age 60 or later if one chooses. My husband ALWAYS recommends taking the money as soon as you can! He has had so many clients wait and wait and then they get sick or even worse - pass away before they took their social security . Furthermore, he said that the years without it actually cost you money. He said that IF you are very well off and it doesn't make any difference, then wait. Otherwise - take the money and enjoy!!!! We've used our money for travels abroad and throughout America and Canada; for theater and all the other perks and now it goes to our time with the grandkids. I don't regret it for a second. Now that we are in our early seventies, I'm very happy with the decision and the difference between what we'd have made waiting versus what we did get and enjoyed (and still enjoy) was well worth it. Good luck and wishing you many many more years of fun and healthy living.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

That’s so great that you are able to enjoy your life to the fullest!

[@TeresaS-q7x]

Actually Canada pension (cpp) can start at age 60, up to age 70, with an increase each year you wait. Old age security (oas) can start at age 65, up to age 70, with an increase each year you wait. OAS will start automatically at age 65 but you can opt to put it on hold. I only write this so anyone wondering about Canada cpp and oas know exactly how it works for each.

[@katherinerichardson1767]

I loved teaching so much I did not want to quit so I worked until I was 66 years old. At 66, I got the strongest desire to retire so I could travel whenever I wanted. I still get to teach one day a week so I still get to help children, and I can make short trips to various parts of the country. So I got my cake and eat it too as far as I am concern. In regard to the money aspect, I have been a frugal girl for decades so that was not even a issue in my decision. Frugality is second nature to me. Thanks for sharing your recipe.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Yes, being frugal is just part of who we are as well!

[@carolyneastman6095]

I took SS at 62…..I’m now 74……never looked back! Awe, so happy to see sweet Dixie ❤

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Yes! Dix needed to make a cameo

[@marynienhouse6143]

We both took our social security at 62. We are in a very similar situation as you and Paul. What a blessing that we have choices! Yummy recipe! Taking down the recipe now. Thank you for another great video. Blessings to you all. Say hello to Paul’s folks and scratch behind Dixie’s ear for me ❤️

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Mary, thank you for always encouraging us!

[@keelyseward5413]

I'm not to retirement age but my husband and myself have had the conversation about how social security will be our "bonus" when we do retire. We wont count on it because we have another 30 years until retirement and are putting plans in place to retire comfortably. I love to see these videos because it lets me think of the future even more. Thank you both!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

You are so welcome!

[@debcrawford3339]

Oh, how beautiful the birds and Dixie were. Emmy and Paul you’ve got it down. Thanks always for the inspiration!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Deb, thank you for the kind words!

[@Heyrizzo]

I’m so happy Paul spoke out. Yes, you worked hard and you might as well take it now and while it’s still there! The ravioli looks delicious too! Have a great weekend 🎉

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Yes, Paul really felt strongly about that lol!

[@juliemoore6957]

The birds are loving your warmed birdbath! So sweet!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

We have had Bluebirds and Robins galore!

[@candyrenee2152]

A pension is helpful for sure. I don't have a pension. I do have a simple IRA. I hope to retire at 65, I believe my full retirement age is 67 but my goal is 65. Frugality is helpful. This is a great video thanks for sharing.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Frugality definitely makes a difference! Thanks for watching!

[@KNS616]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts & sharing Dixie ( omg what a sweet little face). Hugs

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Dixie says thanks so much!

[@carolynb2457]

Great video Emmy and Paul. Your explanation of why Paul took his SSI at 62 was very clear and will be very helpful to so many people who are trying to make a decision. Stay safe and warm and have a blessed week.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thank you for the kind words!

[@karenpetrasovits7174]

I did exactly as you did with the pros and cons and the calculations. I took my Social Security at 62 which was this past July. Right now I am living on my pension and social security and it is working so well.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

So happy it worked out well for you, Karen!

[@PeterCleveland-n1t]

I took mine at 62 and my husband waited til 70. He had considerably more lifetime earnings than I did. I guess it was the thing to do. I tell my grandchildren to keep excellent records of all the places they work. I have some earning gaps that I think are incorrect, part time jobs while I was in college etc. I have lived in several states and some of the places I worked are now out of business. Probably should have contested this with social security when I was 62. My father died at 67 and my only brother at 49. So I thought I might not live a long time. Am now 74 and in pretty good health. Carole

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks for sharing your story, Carole!

[@peggyward9592]

Thank you for discussing this topic with your viewers. So many people don’t know how to properly evaluate the numbers so they can make the best decision for themselves. Two years ago, I retired at 62 from a state job and with social security. It has been life saving. I have always been frugal but now my life is richer. I purchased two saving cd’s for the first time in my life last year. Thank you so much for your videos.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Peggy, so happy you are doing well!

[@tinastinyliving686]

I started getting my widows benefits when I turned 60, and now I'm 66. People told me to wait, and I said no, and I"m so glad I did it. Here in Forks WA it has been 25 degrees in the morning. Sweet Dixie knows she's on KZbin.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Yes, she does! The little Diva!

[@rhondadufrene1412]

10 inches of snow in Louisiana!☃️Enjoy all your videos and ideas- so proud when I know I’m already doing a lot of the things you suggest!👍

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

YAY! Sounds like you are doing great!

[@yvonneleal6593]

Dixie Bell is such an adorable baby girl. I just lost mine this week and my heart is shattered. I took my SS at 62. Both of my brothers waited and passed away before full retirement age. Never having received a dime. Best advice I've ever received. Great video. Tfs

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Oh my gosh, I am so sorry. That is just heartbreaking about your pup. I am sending you a gentle virtual hug.

[@vickiehat1074]

I think you done a smart thing good to hear.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thank you!

[@donnabond7279]

A financial advisor advised me to take Social security at 62. I'm soooooo glad I did!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

That's great, Donna!

[@rachelseibert7882]

We took social security early too, best decision ever!!! The main thing to consider is health insurance, we were insured through husband’s work. We had to pay out of pocket for a few years, it is a big thing to take into account.😊

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Yes, we pay for our health insurance but it’s manageable!

[@SaPa-l3k]

Every time I see your blue dishes (you the cheese on it) it makes me happy. My grandparents had the same pattern. Their items were sold at auction and wish I was old enough to have purchased them. I look for this pattern at flea markets and antique stores. I have enjoyed your channel and content, thank you for sharing. Stay warm!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

A dear friend gave me the entire set. It was her late uncles and she knew how I loved vintage dishes. My dear friend has passed but I still have the precious dishes.

[@juliad6201]

I really appreciategd Paul's commentary, in addition to yours Emmy! Sometimes it's not all about the math, but also about your feelings!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

So true, Julia!

[@yourhomeisyourbusiness2221]

I took social security at 62 as well. Don’t regret it a bit.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks for sharing!

[@CookingwithDesi]

Thank you for sharing the reasons for your decision. It makes sense to enjoy that money now during your early, more active years of retirement.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Absolutely!

[@tawnaparko3388]

I took SS at 62 and 4 months. My husband was 64. We are early retirees too and between helping our youngest with tuition and paying for health insurance we were dipping into our savings pretty hard. A financial advisor recommended starting SS. That was 2.5 years ago and so far it was a very good choice.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

So happy it was the right choice for you!

[@SSj-xw8cf]

Thank you for the video. The meal looks delicious. My husband and I took social security at age 62 and haven't looked back. Our investments are doing great and we want for nothing. I am now 66 and he is 67. To God be the glory! Best wishes to you both and all this community.🤍

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

You as well, thank you!

[@PhilipDonna1982]

Great video and great info on SSI. My husband and I agree with you and he is planning to retire at the end of this year, at age 62. Waiting longer doesn’t net you that much more. And his SSI will be close to his actual working salary since the expense of commuting, being able to sell his car meaning less car insurance premiums will save us money. Quality of life can’t be quantified in a dollar amount. I appreciate Paul’s comments. He is right!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Yes, Paul really felt strongly about that!

[@cynthiahumphrey1718]

Great 👍🏻 information and I love the recipe. SS age 62. Hate to put it this way but my family does not have longevity. Hope I don’t follow in my relatives footsteps!😊

[@kelleywright486]

My husband is 58 and I am 55. We, too, are debt free and have other income besides just his job. He will take his Social Security at 62. His mother, father and both siblings died before they could collect theirs. We aren’t promised tomorrow!

[@roslyngeer7698]

Can you still retire if you have a very low mortgage paymen

[@roslyngeer7698]

My mortgage is cheaper then rent.

[@janicestefaniak6961]

we also took retirement at 62. We do not outstanding bills, two homes are paid off. My husband is a disabled retired army veteran. we do fine with our frugal retirement. Congrats Paul!!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

That's wonderful, Janice!

[@yvonnehill3954]

Your video was so interesting and enjoyable Emmy & Paul. Good for you having the courage to start taking Paul's social security. I'm so glad for you that, after doing all the maths, it was the right thing to do. Both of you are such sensible, wise, prayerful and level headed people, so I have no doubt that you made the right decision. In some years, you'll then have Emmy's social security too. Your channel is a very good one so I'm pleased that you will still carry on with it. Thank you for showing Dixie at the end. She is just the most adorable little thing. That little face looking up at the camera was just the cutest. I love that little dog. She's just so lovely, and I'm so glad that she has you for her owners. You both look after her so well and love her so much, and she has such a happy little life with you. May God bless you both and I wish you a wonderful week.❤

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Yvonne, if you lived nearby we would be best friends! Such a sweet and kind person you are! God Bless Dear One!

[@chelleQLD]

Thank you for sharing on a very personal and private topic, and your reasoning for your decision. Hopefully it will help people make the right for them. I’m 38 and in Australia so a long way off retirement and under a different system and trying to save. Low spend January was a struggle but I am determined to do better in February, March and so on. Says ‘no’ to wants not ‘needs’ is the goal for the year!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

You can do it! Every little win is still a win remember that!

[@bethmay9120]

I agree with both you and Paul. I had a very close friend pass unexpectedly at the age of 60. She had worked since the age of 16 years old and never got a chance to use what she had paid into all those years. I'm single and my healthcare is the only reason I feel I need to continue working at this time. My home is the only debt I have so I do think I could manage just fine with a lower but longer Social Security payment.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks for sharing!

[@dawncierelli1510]

Amen Paul!!! My hubby always says "where's our interest on our ss??

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

So true!

[@donnarakitzis2719]

God doesn’t promise tomorrow. I’m taking Social Security early myself

[@sunrae1531]

Canada here. My hubby had kidney cancer and immediately took both his pensions. Mostly because had he passed without starting I would not get any part of it. Too much of a chance to take. Invested that until he retired at 65. I took mine at 60 as I was done working full time.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks for sharing!

[@karennicholson7753]

Your recipe looks awesome. I made some changes based on what I had on hand and it’s yummy. I had large shell pasta and added some cooked chicken to it. Thanks for your encouragement.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Sounds great!

[@katmau9346]

I took mine at 62 and I don’t regret it one bit. Best ever decision. Kathy ❤

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks, Kathy!

[@stepha.7658]

Paul- CONGRATS on your retirement!!! 🎉 I hope that SS is still there when it’s our time. We are doing our own retirement accounts to try to retire at 50. We hope it all works out 💪

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Paul actually retired at 55. He's just taking his Social Security now 🤗

[@paulapowers8201]

My husband retired at 55 also NYS pension,we also crunched the numbers and decided 62 also ,I decided 65 .We are also debt free mortgage free for 10 years now...we do a lot of volunteering

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

That's wonderful, Paula!

[@loriehenderson1231]

My husband retired as a police officer at the age of 47. We’ve been living on his pension for 17 years already.. I started my social security at 62. My husband decided to wait until 67 because he opened his own business and didn’t want to have to worry about it affecting his social security. I also did the math and decided it was some extra money for us to save or help with the high cost nowadays.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

That's great, Lorie!

[@lisaremy4817]

Hi Emmy and Paul…my Husband and I are both 61 and retired living on our pensions. My Husband has Parkinson’s and was able to collect his SS disability benefits since 2015 when he retired from 30 years at Anheuser-Busch. I retired from UCLA in 2020 during the pandemic . I just turned 61 this past November and have already decided to take my SS benefits next November at 62 God willing. We are financially secure currently but I know so many people who passed early and never got to collect theirs. I plan on adding a portion of it to our IRA.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Lisa, the only income you can add to an IRA I believe (please double check) is earned income. So we can not use Paul's SS to add to our Roth IRA it has to be my income from KZbin. Then we can add the SS to our everyday savings.

[@marieholzwasser9224]

Congrats Paul on your retirement!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Paul retired at 55 actually! He is just taking Social Security now at 62 🤗

[@deannab9511]

I'm doing the math right now and it makes sense to retire at 62 for us too. Looks delicious!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks, it was yummy!

[@lv4366]

I am taking Social Security at 62, in 3.5 years. For all the reasons you listed

[@Me-tv5mw]

I just turned 59 and right there with you!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks for sharing!

[@livingwellfarmtx]

I 100% agree with you. As a widow, I was eligible at 60. My husband worked hard and was never able to receive what he paid in. I don't know how long I have or how long ss will be here, so I decided to take it as soon as I was able.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thank you for sharing!

[@GretchenBostrom]

I need your channel now more than ever. You and Paul are such lights in the darkness and I appreciate you both so much. I am over a decade away from 62 but you can bet I’m taking social security then (god willing it’s still even a thing then) for the simple fact that you never know what you have for time. I’d rather enjoy it while I can vs waiting and risk for something potentially bad happening. You just never know. I’m so glad Paul made the decision he did. I am so happy for you both.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Gretchen, we sincerely thank you! You are such a constant here at our channel. You are very appreciated!

[@robinkline5600]

My husband and I also took our social security at age 62. We are now in our mid seventies, and it definitely worked out for us as my husband received a good pension. We love CDs for investing. Your recipe looked delicious. I have all of the ingredients except the ravioli. Am going to make the recipe with pasta and just add cheese to it. This'll be a winner as my husband loves spinish...it's his favorite veggie.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

That sounds perfect! Thanks for sharing!

[@joanncooper3521]

Me to Paul I've been working since I was 16. And my present job I've been on for 43 years. 😊

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

That's amazing!

[@barbchumbley9142]

My hubby is 6 yrs older and took his SS at 62 We were able to travel more. I worked for my pension then also took my SS at 67. Living debt free and happy. I was debating when to retire and on 3 day trip near the Mississippi River I got my answer. As I looked across the river I had this calm reasurance it was time. Went back to work, checked with our pension rep, SS office and gave notice. Also had 6 weeks vacation, so I worked 1 day in Jan and took 4 weeks vacation. Worked 1 day in Feb and took 2 weeks vacation. Those 2 days worked gave me the credit for an extra year towards my pension. You definetely have to do the math. Enjoy life!❤❤

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Love that! Good for you!

[@creditczar6979]

Very wise! You obviously did your research and didn't make a rash decision.

[@telmrtdl]

I’m 35 but I want to retire as soon as possible. You have worked so hard! Enjoy your money and retirement!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thank you for the kind words!

[@reneejohnson5787]

I'm not at that point yet. I'm happy for those that are. That recipe is very similar to one I make. Sometimes, I add Italian sausage to it. A crockpot meal I make is Sweet potato chili. Take 2-4 small, medium sized potatoes and cut them up into chunks of your choosing. Add, 1, 28 oz can of diced tomatoes, 1 can of black beans drained, 1 can of kidney beans drained, corn is optional, I also cut up a small onion and crush some garlic cloves and saute them and put them in. Add 2-4 c stock. I eyeball. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Then I season to taste. I add chili powder, cumin, a bit of black pepper, and sometimes red pepper flakes. I also add a bit of sugar to cut the acid. Then I serve with cheese, sour cream. My family loves it.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Wow, Renee! That sounds fantastic!

[@reneejohnson5787]

@FrugalMoneySaver , Let me know if you try it. I know you aren't big on beans.

[@lindabudzik9583]

My husband retired early and took his SS at 62. I also retired early and took my SS at 62. At the age of 75, my husband passed away somewhat unexpectedly. I now collect a hybrid of our two SSs. Believe me, the system for how they figure out the hybrid amount is very complicated, but it isn’t the two SS amounts added together. I am now a few months away from reaching age 67. Had I not taken my SS at 62 and had waited until I was 67, I would have lost out on my SS all together and it amounted to over $90,000. For us it was absolutely the right decision and I’m glad we had those years together to enjoy that $90,000. How sad it would have been to work all those years and pay all that money into SS and get none of it back.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Oh I am so sorry for the loss of your husband...

[@annah.73]

I absolutely Love Love your channel!!! And I myself have made the decision to take my social security at 62. We are not promised tomorrow. Totally agree with Paul I have been working since I was 15 1/2 years old. My mother did when she turned 62. She was glad she did! May God Bless You Both!!!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

You as well, thank you!

[@janejdough2230]

Canadian here, we waited ( retirement is 65 here) . We were both working and the extra income would have kicked us into a higher tax bracket.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks for sharing!

[@glendagrosjean477]

I love the sign and fresh baked bread in the background! God bless you!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

You as well, Glenda! Thank you!

[@margiesoapyhairbillian4754]

I have also!!!! I am 62 years old myself

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks for sharing, Margie!

[@colleenwebster8762]

We are a few years away from retiring in our late 50s but right now we are looking at me taking it at 62 because I have the smaller amount and my husband waiting till 70. But he is a year older than me, meaning we need to wait longer to start collecting SS. I know as we get closer to turning 62, we will look at our financial and health situation and see if that plan still seems best. The ravioli dish looks delicious!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Wonderful, Colleen! Thanks for sharing!

[@elizabethlangheim7214]

Hubby took his SS at 62 and he’s 77 now. The money helped us help our mothers. Our mothers have passed. I figured I’d wait until 70 since we don’t need the money right now. I almost died at 59. I’ll be 61 this year and I’m thinking about taking it at 62. I have to check the break even point but even then it might be worth using that money to travel now because I’m more likely to travel less as I get older.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Yes, check the numbers and all factors and do what works best for you.

[@suzyq6406]

Great video! Thank you for sharing your journey and I am going to try that recipe. Love Dixie.🥰

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks so much, Suzy!

[@tinas9583]

I chose to take my retirement at 62 as well.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks for sharing!

[@robynperez8921]

Thank you for your channel..I'm ole school and so happy and debt-free.. I love your channel❤

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

You are so welcome! Thanks for the kind words!

[@cathyallshouse2981]

I'm 65 right now (full retirement age is 66 and 10 for my birthdate) and planning to start taking SS payments at FRA which will be Feb 2026. So, it's coming up. I'm already really tired of the work life--commute, meetings, deadlines, spreadsheets, reconciliations. I've had enough. I'm still working though to plump up savings until then. I'm hoping I can last one more year. I'm in decent health, so I can work, my desire to stop is purely emotional. There's so much I want to do and time is short. If I had been as financially set as you two, I would have stopped working and taken it at 62 also. Your ravioli dish looks wonderful! I'll have to try it--may halve it for my mini crockpot.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks so much for sharing your journey!

[@melodylewis1354]

Great video have a blessed and safe weekend ❤

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

You as well, Melody! Thank you!

[@kakelinga]

I think it was a smart move on Paul's part to take it at 62. By the way, Dave Ramsey recommends that people take social security as soon as they can. There is no guarantee that the money will be there in years to come. It might be greatly reduced. My husband's full retirement age would have been 66 and 8 months. He was planning to take it when he retired at the age of 66 and 2 months. I was going to take mine at 62. My hubby passed away very unexpectedly from a freak accident in September of 2023. He was three weeks away from his 65th birthday. Because I was 60 at the time, I qualified for widows benefits. The age for widows benefits for social security is 59. I began collecting my widows benefits when he passed away.

[@CookingwithDesi]

Sorry for your loss.💗

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

So very very sorry for your loss...

[@kakelinga]

@@CookingwithDesi ❤

[@kakelinga]

❤

[@allisonmodaff5635]

Thank you for this valuable input. I’m sorry for your loss.

[@sharons4611]

Everyone’s circumstance’s are different. I worked most of my life, then divorced at 48. Stopped working at 53. Realized I would be ok if I was careful. And I was. So decided (with the help of a small pension, passive income & SS rule that I could get SS $ from my ex’s acct once he retired) I waited till I was 70 to take my share of SS from my working yrs. My SS grew at 8% a yr while I waited. is a good sum.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Sharon, thanks for sharing!

[@eileenbecker9245]

Love your advice!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Glad it was helpful!

[@lupecisneros7580]

My father did the same thing & retired at 62 . BUT the biggest reason was my other became disabled & he crunch numbers but money wise was not even $600 difference a year. He takes care of my mom , enjoys gardening , & able to spend more time with his siblings who are also retired. Blessings to both 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Blessings right back, thank you!

[@whyme7996]

Social security used to have the break-even calculator on their site. It would tell you at what age, taking it early or waiting would break even or equal the same amount cumulatively from both options, waiting for full benefits or taking it early. Turns out that the break even point is about 2 years after the average age of death in the USA. I wonder why the removed that calculator from the SS site?

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

NO WAY! I didn't know that...

[@cherylvelasquez3220]

My parents took theirs at 62.5. My dad died at 67 after a very aggressive brain tumor that we only knew about for a little over 3 months. Tomorrow is not promised. I have been looking at this for my husband because he is almost 57. You can also get spousal benefits, but I can't remember all the details about when you can apply for that. Thank you for sharing your journey!!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks for sharing!

[@michelleraney3577]

I will be 62 in March. This is good information. Thanks!!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

You're welcome!

[@fionasmall4384]

Good for you Paul and Emmy in Scotland we have to wait to 66 for the state pension, we retired a couple of years before that as like you both we are mortgage and debt free. We both lived of our works pensions until we finally qualified for the state pension we love retirement just wish we could have done it sooner. The one pot meal looks delicious will definitely be trying that ❤

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

It was really very delicious!

[@LauraMacMillan-el2kc]

Widowed at 40 to a man with no insurance. Raised 4 kids on a low income job. Finally retired 4 years ago at 71; took my Canada Pension benefits at 63.5 years old. It saved my bacon! I retired debt and mortgage free and have even managed to accumulate some savings. I feel very grateful.

[@LauraMacMillan-el2kc]

Sorry; I’m 71 now. Retired at 67.5 years old. It was tough at times getting here but it was worth all the scrimping and saving in the end.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

That is so inspiriting! Thank you for sharing!

[@Suzy12678]

My parents did the same and never looked back. My mom is ill with dementia (earlier onset) and definitely won’t live long enough to have made a different decision. Best wishes!!!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Oh I am so sorry your mom isn't well...

[@CreamPuff-ek8fd]

Love your recipe will need to make a few tweaks to it for myself as Iactose intolerant so I might try using lactose free cooking cream instead of the cheese… will also switch out ravioli for meat tortellini than I already have in the freezer! in Canada we can also choose to choose one of our government pensions as of the age of 60. There is another one that you only get as of the age of 65 which can be delayed up to age of 70 with slight increases if you have delay. As u mentioned every situation is different and people need to crunch numbers and see what their health situation is before making their choices. I really like how respectful you are when describing your choices. My one pot meal that I love making in the winter is a beef stew to which I add carrots, potatoes and parsnips( u can add mushrooms if you like them also) I always add homemade broth and some wine to mine and some tomatoes that I froze from my garden or a good can of plum tomatoes and seasonings like bay leaf, rosemary, parsley some salt, pepper and garlic and some thyme. The house smells wonderful and with a piece of homemade bread to sop up the sauce ( la scarpetta as Italians say!) it feeds your soul also..

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

That stew sound delicious! Add homemade bread like you said and it's a feast!

[@olafpamela]

My husband and I have taken SS at 62, with advice from our financial advisor and no regrets 🤔👍🏻😊 Emmy, I made about the same meal last weekend😋 Thanks for sharing 🤗 God bless

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

I am glad that you are happy with your decision!

[@memorysmaid9551]

I retired three months prior to my 64th birthday. I started taking my Social Security payment at 64; my husband had begun taking his at 62. For the first two years of retirement we used only our Social Security payments to fund our monthly budget. We took a few nice trips using savings and my accrued vacatinn/sick leave pay that I received when I retired. We also are mortgage-free and debt-free. Three years into retirement, I began taking a small payment from the retirement funds that I accumulated through my employer, simply to add to our "fun money" and be able to give nice birthday gifts to our eleven grandchildren. My husband has not taken any payments from his retirement fund yet. You mentioned uncertasinty about Social Security''s future, and we understand that could affect future income, but we wouldl still have the bulk of our individual retirement funds to draw income. I agree completely with Paul's idea that one should begin to benefit as soon as possible from all those years of paying into the system.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks for sharing!

[@lynnegordon6749]

Emmy and Paul, thank you for your openness sharing Your financial journey and decision making process. This video will encourage many people to make thoughtful decisions. And the crockpot meal looks so good. Thanks so much for sharing it with us. I have everything to make a similar soup myself. 🎉🎉

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Lynne, thank you for the encouragement!