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.

Starting in August, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will claw back overpayments, potentially reducing recipients’ checks by as much as half. Those who received a letter from the SSA regarding overpayment may need to rebudget their expenses as the agency moves to recoup excess funds.

I’ll be 62 in early 2026. I’m in relatively good physical shape. I collect 100% VA Disability for mental health at $4,000 per month. I have $40,000 in cryptocurrency that I play around with. I have $2,