I'm seeing basically two very different arguments presented here. 1). File early to have a better chance of getting back all MY money or 2). File at your full retirement age - or later - to maximize your monthly income. A few years ago I ran into an old coworker who'd retired early because He'd had to some 20+ years earlier. He said at first he actually brought home a little more than when he worked, but that income changed very little and now he has to be much more careful with his budget. I've heard many analysts predict that due to the high deficits the Feds have run up, high inflation and taxes are inevitable in the probably near future. Will what may be a comfortable income now at 59 be enough when I'm 79? My point is, I don't want to be that guy in his late 70's or older working as a greeter at Walmart because he took all the early retirement opportunities ( and incurred the financial "penalties") so he could have a good time at 62.
