When should I start claiming Social Security?

You can claim at 62 (reduced benefit), full retirement age (66-67, full benefit), or 70 (maximum benefit — 24-32% more than FRA). Each year you delay past 62 increases your benefit roughly 7-8%. If you're healthy with other income sources, delaying to 70 maximizes lifetime benefits. If you need the income or have health concerns, claiming earlier makes sense. Run your specific numbers at ssa.gov.