When one takes SS is a personal issue based on financial situation and health. If both are good, the 8% increase in benefits each year one defers SS is a darn good "return on investment". If neither or both are poor, take the money at 62 and enjoy it. For me, so far, so good......and both my wife and I fully vested in SS albeit at different income levels. My wife took SS at 62, as she had cut back from full time to part-time work and the penalty on extra income was modest in that setting (if you've decent earned income, taking SS early is nuts). As I reach full retirement age (66) next month, I've filed for benefits then deferred (see post by Depmandog - he's fully correct) payments cause (God willing) I'm going for 72 and the maximum amount. Anyhow, at 66 I can, and have, claimed the 50% benefit on my wife's SS check....so, a little coming my way from SS regardless and with no penalty. When I hit 72 (again, God willing), I'll file for the max. benefit. When I expire, which statistically I will prior to my wife, she will get my benefit level that at present would be about 150% more than she collects from SS now.
And, y'all are quite right, SS regs are complex. I sorted most out via a net search, but an e-mail exchange with a local SS rep (they prefer not having folks clog up their office so take questions via e-mail once they know you'll show up at their office otherwise) clarified a few points, and I encourage y'all to pursue similar.
