When you've spent four decades or more in the workforce, it's understandable to be drawn to the idea of claiming those monthly checks at 62.

Should I collect Social Security at 62? Will I need to file for Medicaid at 65 and which parts? I have lifetime VA Healthcare. If I predecease my wife, is she entitled to survivor benefits if she is younger than 62?

If you're like most people, the earliest you can claim Social Security benefits is age 62. Waiting until later, though, will increase the size of your monthly checks . Still, there are plenty of reasons you may prefer to begin receiving Social Security benefits at 62.