When to start taking Social Security: A guide

Should you begin taking checks at 62, 65, 67, or 70? Here are the factors that can help you decide. When do most people begin taking Social Security? The most common age that Americans file for Social Security is 62, the earliest age at which they are eligible. In 2013, for instance, 48 percent of women and 42 percent of men who claimed benefits were age 62. Signing up as soon as possible comes at a price, though: Monthly payments at age 62 will be up to 30 percent lower than what they...