Retirement Planning in Your 60s

Your 60s are about transition: when to claim Social Security, how Medicare works, and how to withdraw from savings without running out.

When to claim Social Security

You can claim as early as 62, but benefits grow for each year you wait until 70. The right timing depends on your health, other income, and marital situation.

For many, delaying even a couple of years meaningfully increases lifetime, inflation-adjusted income.

Medicare basics

Medicare eligibility starts at 65, and missing enrollment windows can cause lifelong penalties. Mark the dates and plan coverage before you leave an employer plan.

A withdrawal strategy

Decide a sustainable withdrawal rate and which accounts to tap first for tax efficiency.

Watch 'sequence of returns' risk — a bad market early in retirement is more dangerous than one later. Keeping 1–2 years of spending in cash can help you avoid selling in a downturn.

Educational information only — not financial, tax, or legal advice. Consider speaking with a qualified professional about your situation.

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