Does Social Security Keep Growing After 70?

Confessions of a Financial Advisor

The Cost of Waiting — Matilda’s Story

When “I’ll Get Around to It” Becomes Expensive

Procrastination doesn’t pay. 

I recently sat down with Matilda. She was 73, unmarried, and had never had children. But she had impacted hundreds—if not thousands—of lives through her work as a university educator. She spent her entire career pouring herself into students, unlocking the power of learning and encouraging others to build a better life through education. 

But the one subject she never took time to study was her own retirement. 

When we met, she was still working. “I love what I do,” she told me. But her body was beginning to slow down. She knew her final semester was near, and she needed a real plan for income. 

So we started taking inventory:

• Her investments 
• No pension 
• And eventually—Social Security

I naturally assumed she had already been collecting benefits, given her age. But when I asked how much she received from Social Security, her response made my jaw drop: 

“Andrew, I haven’t filed yet. I’m still working. I figured it would keep growing.” 

I paused—trying to keep a calm, compassionate face. 
“Matilda, Social Security stops growing after age 70.” 

Her eyes widened. “Wait, what does that mean? Doesn’t that mean they owe me money?” 

Sadly, no.

The Financial Impact

I explained gently that while she could file now and request six months of retroactive benefits. But the previous two years and four months? Those benefits were gone.  

Unrecoverable. 

Matilda had unintentionally forfeited over $59,000 in retirement income. 

The Truth About Social Security After 70 

Your Benefits Stop Growing at 70

There’s a common misconception—one that costs retirees tens of thousands of dollars: 

That Social Security continues to grow indefinitely if you don’t file. 

The truth? Your benefit grows only until age 70.  

Delaying past that point yields zero increase—no higher checks, no extra credits. 

Why Smart People Still Miss This

Education ≠ Expertise in Retirement Planning

Matilda Was Smart—But She Went It Alone 

What struck me most wasn’t just the financial loss—it was how easily it could have been avoided. 

Matilda is one of the most educated, insightful women I’ve met. She worked at a university. She managed her own accounts. She lived responsibly. 

But she admitted something important: 
“I never thought to check in with a financial professional. I just assumed I’d know what to do.” 

And that’s what this blog is really about. 

Why DIY Doesn’t Work for Social Security Decisions

Social Security is just one piece of the puzzle. Timing it right is crucial—but it needs to be part of a comprehensive income plan. 

The takeaway? 

• Some people should file early. 
• Some should wait until full retirement age or 70. 
• But no one should delay past 70. 

And no one should make this decision alone. 

Everyone needs an income plan. Don’t go it alone. 

This might feel like a glaring mistake to you. But even smart, educated people—like Matilda—can overlook the rules. 

Financial planning isn’t your career. It’s ours.

How to Avoid Matilda’s Mistake

If you haven’t filed for Social Security yet, let’s sit down and do it right. At SWAN Capital, we’re here to help you build a personalized retirement plan tailored to your age, lifestyle, income, and future goals. 

Don’t wait—secure your future today. 

Final Thoughts from a Financial Advisor

Even smart, capable people can lose thousands by waiting too long to file for Social Security.
If you’re nearing or past 70, now is the time to act.

At SWAN Capital, we specialize in helping retirees maximize income, minimize stress, and sleep well at night.

Don’t go it alone—schedule your complimentary retirement income review today.

COVERING OUR TAIL FEATHERS 

Welcome to Swan Capital, LLC (“SWAN”), your friendly neighborhood Registered Investment Adviser (“RIA”). Now, while we may have a fancy title, remember that our registration doesn’t guarantee we’re flying high above the rest. This communication hasn’t been blessed or verified by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or any state securities authority. At SWAN, we believe in giving you personalized investment advice as unique as a swan’s graceful glide. We work with clients in their own states, making sure to play by all the regulatory rules or find the right exceptions. But here’s the scoop: all investments come with risks—like a wild swim in the pond—so no investment strategy can promise profits or protect you from the occasional splashdown. Just remember, past performance is like a cozy old story; it might be nice to reminisce about, but it doesn’t promise what’s coming next. 

SWAN Capital, LLC is an independent firm and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS) or any government agency. 

Thanks for gliding along with us at SWAN! We’re here to help you soar to new financial heights while ensuring you can truly Sleep Well At Night!