Retirees can maximize Social Security benefits in 2026 by strategically timing benefit collection. Waiting until full retirement age (67 for most) significantly increases monthly payments compared to starting at 62, though this means fewer years of receiving benefits. Experts advise against assuming 62 or 70 is always optimal, emphasizing personalized decisions based on health, work status, and financial needs. Couples should consider joint and survivor benefits, with higher earners potentially delaying to increase survivor payouts for their spouse. Understanding the 'break-even point' is crucial for optimizing lifetime earnings.