Social Security Optimizer

Social Security Optimizer is a simple tool with a step-by-step guide. It uses certain assumptions to produce benefit estimates that can help you to customize a benefits filing strategy based on data inputs for your client’s specific situation and compare it with a strategy that seeks to maximize the benefits paid.

The Benefit Delay feature calculates the amount of assets needed to provide income while delaying benefits past Full Retirement Age (FRA). The Benefit Replacement feature will calculate the assets needed to replace benefits lost after the death of a spouse.

Once you develop the strategy that best aligns to your client’s goals you can download a hypothetical illustration report outlining how and when to consider filing for benefits according to the chosen strategy.

To get started, you’ll need:

  • Age at Time of Filing
  • Life Expectancy
  • Marital Status
  • Benefit at FRA, Social Security Administration
  • Pension from employment with a federal, state or local government agency

Re-think Social Security—It’s not just a government IOU, it is potentially the largest asset in your client’s retirement portfolio.

Important Legal Information

Updated per the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015.

The Social Security Optimizer tool, hypothetical illustrations, and other information presented are for general information purposes only, and should not be considered as investment, tax, legal advice, or a solicitation to buy or sell any specific security or used as the final determinant of the best strategy on how and when to claim social security benefits. Clients are strongly advised to consult with appropriate financial, legal or tax advisors about their individual circumstances and individual goals.

This communication is general in nature and provided for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be considered or relied upon as legal, tax or investment advice or an investment recommendation, or as a substitute for legal or tax counsel. How and when to claim Social Security benefits is a personal decision, and can depend on a number of factors — such as your client’s financial and individual situation, health, family longevity, and tax and social security laws which can be complex and subject to frequent change. Any investment products or services named herein are for illustrative purposes only, and should not be considered an offer to buy or sell, or an investment recommendation for, any specific security, strategy or investment product or service. As a financial professional, only you can provide your customers with personalized advice and investment recommendations tailored to their specific goals, individual situation, and risk tolerance.

Franklin Templeton does not provide legal or tax advice. Franklin Templeton is not responsible for content on the Social Security Administration’s website. Federal and state laws and regulations are complex and subject to change, which can materially impact results. FTDI cannot guarantee that such information is accurate, complete or timely; and disclaims any liability arising out of your use of, or any tax position taken in reliance on, such information.

All financial decisions and investments involve risk, including possible loss of principal.

Your clients should carefully consider a fund’s investment goals, risks, charges and expenses before investing. Download a prospectus, which contains this and other information. Your clients should read the prospectus carefully they invest or send money.

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Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc.