# Social Security Claiming Age

> Mexican pension changes Social Security claiming strategy for U.S. accountant.
- Title: Social Security Claiming Age · Kiplinger | Shortify
- Summary: Mexican pension changes Social Security claiming strategy for U.S. accountant. Carlos, a U.S. accountant, delayed Social Security claims to help family after…
- Keywords: carlos, social security, mexican pension, ussa, retirement, claiming age, tax rules, financial planning, Social, Security, Claiming, Age
- Source: Kiplinger — https://kiplinger.com/retirement/social-security/when-the-biggest-social-security-check-is-not-the-best-choice
- Published: 2026-10-14T12:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: carlos, social security, mexican pension, ussa, retirement, claiming age, tax rules, financial planning
## Carlos's question
Carlos, an experienced accountant in Los Angeles, asked when to claim Social Security.

> When should I claim Social Security?
## Mexican pension begins
His Mexican pension starts in January 2027 after working legally in the U.S. since 2009.
## Initial plan
Carlos planned to work until September 2027 before returning to Mexico.
## Five claiming options
Five dates for claiming Social Security: when pension begins, work ends, after moving, at full retirement age, or at 70.
## Pension covers budget
His Mexican pension provides $2,500 monthly, exceeding his $2,200 budget by $300.
## Tax rules matter
U.S.-Mexico Social Security agreement hasn't entered into force, so Mexican work history doesn't fill gaps.
## Retirement earnings test
Claiming before full retirement age while still working could cause Social Security benefits to be withheld.
## Windfall Elimination Provision
His Mexican pension won't trigger a reduction under the Windfall Elimination Provision.
## Family connection
Carlos missed family after his parents died in their 60s and many friends were in his age bracket.
## Time value of money
Carlos valued helping family now over larger Social Security checks later.
## Financial analysis needed
A complete analysis compares claiming dates, incorporates remaining earnings, and quantifies differences.
## What matters most
The most useful question wasn't printed on his benefit statement: What is the money for?
## Key takeaway

Carlos, a U.S. accountant, delayed Social Security claims to help family after his Mexican pension exceeded his monthly budget by $300.