Wanted to do some calculations about taking Soc Security early (62) vs waiting until Full Retirement (67) and had a couple questions. Though I won't have to worry about this for many years, there are things I'd just like to know for the future. (Please don't turn this political, I'm just looking for answers, thanks).
First, I realize: It's always better for wait to full retirement (or more) if you can. -If you need the money to survive you don't have the choice. -SS is indexed for inflation. -Who knows if there will be changes to SS.
That said...
(1) Retiring early vs full (67): How much increase (%) each year is it in those "early retirement" years from 62? I read somewhere that for each year you wait it's 8% more but it didn't say if that 8% figure was for years someone delayed after full retirement or for the years before full retirement. And for years 62-67 is it the same % increase each year, or does the amount change the closer you get to full?
(2) Am I correct that your SS amount only gets indexed for inflation once you're actually taking it, not before you start? Example: Say SS estimates if George takes his SS in 20 years with no additional contributions then his SS will be $1k/mo. Say George stops working (so no more contributions are made) but inflation is 3% every year over the next 20 years. 20 years from now when George starts taking it, will it still be $1k/mo for him?
Is there a good online calculator that will show taking SS early vs waiting until full (or later!) that will let you plug in an inflation amount as well?