There's a reason that Social Security is called "the third rail of American politics" – as in, touch it and die. Most Americans – especially seniors – are fiercely protective when it comes to their retirement benefits.

Although many Americans have traditionally envisioned retirement age as 65, full retirement age is actually 67 for those born in 1960 or later, according to the Social Security Administration

Spousal benefits are worth up to one-half of what your partner qualifies for at their FRA. You can claim these benefits early, but you lose 25/36th of 1% per month for up to 36 months and five-twelfths of 1% per month thereafter. There's also no delayed retirement credit for applying for spousal benefits after your FRA.