Fact checked by Vikki Velasquez If you're nearing retirement, you’ve probably wondered when to start taking Social Security benefits. For years, age 65 was considered the “normal” retirement age, but a law passed in 1983 gradually raised this age to reflect the increasing life expectancy of Americans.

Here are three key signs that delaying Social Security benefits might not be your best option, according to experts. “If you have serious health concerns or a shorter than average life expectancy, delaying social security may result in you missing out on the full benefit that you’re entitled to,