6 Ways to Make Sure You Have Enough Money for Retirement

iStock.com/shapecharge

2. Maximize Your Spousal Benefits

There are benefits that married couples can take advantage of, too. By using spousal benefits in your retirement strategy, you can supplement your income without accessing your Social Security funds.

For example, once you hit retirement age you can file for Social Security benefits, but then immediately suspend your payments. By doing this, your spouse can start to claim an additional amount that is worth 50% of your total Social Security fund without directly tapping into it.

This strategy will allow you to live from the spousal benefits, until your own Social Security has maxed out when you reach 70. If you retire at 66, you can spend 4 years living from spousal benefits without the need for your Social Security or spending any of your other savings.

---------- Advertisement ----------