When is the increase in benefits reflected if you delay receiving them?

The correct response highlights that if you delay receiving Social Security benefits, the increase in benefits is typically reflected in the next year, unless you have reached the age of 70. When individuals choose to delay their benefits, they potentially earn delayed retirement credits, which can increase their monthly benefit amount. These credits accumulate for each month benefits are delayed beyond the full retirement age up until age 70.

The benefits adjustment won’t be seen in the same year the delay happens; instead, the increased benefit amount becomes effective and visible when you start receiving the benefits the following year. For those who reach the age of 70, since benefits cannot increase beyond this point due to delay credits, the adjustment occurs at that age and does not adhere to the annual adjustment pattern that applies to those under 70.