The Eternal Question
I am sure this topic has been discussed in detail
There was one earlier thread on this topic... assuming you don't count the other 347,896.
Just kidding! Initiating SS has been the single most frequently discussed topic on the forum since I started coming here. The longest-service members probably dread seeing it introduced again.
But there's a lot of turnover here, with new folks lurking and joining all the time. Just because a question has been asked before doesn't mean those newer members have seen the answers!
but, I am just looking for some general opinions rather than detailed analysis favoring pro or con.
You will find plenty of both general opinion and detailed analysis if you search some of the earlier threads.
I second the general opinion that there isn't one "right" answer applicable to everybody. Sometimes it may be an easy call. For instance, I have a brother-in-law who is delaying SS until he turns 70. In his case, earnings penalties, RMDs and joint life expectancy considerations made the decision for him. He is 10 years older than his wife, was the higher earner for his entire career, and still w*rks part-time in his mid 60s. He's got scads in tax deferred accounts that he is spinning down now in anticipation of the eventual "tax torpedo". When he finally taps his SS in 4 years, he'll preserve a high survivor benefit for his young bride for the rest of her life.
At the other end of the spectrum, both of my sisters will likely take it at 62. They are struggling financially and have serious health issues that are almost guaranteed to shorten their lifespans significantly. They'll want the extra cash the very first day it's available.
OTOH, when the above extreme circumstances don't apply, the "right" decision can be less clear. Actuaries tell us that for an individual who dies on schedule, the lifetime benefit is roughly the same regardless of when we take it. Of course, some of us might not be absolutely punctual at dropping off the twig, so part of our decision is just a guess.
I'll also add my own personal opinion that, whatever you decide, it's unlikely to be the "wrong" decision. Good luck!