When should I start taking my pension if I have a choice of dates?

Many pensions let you start at different ages, and the right time depends on the plan's design and your situation. Some plans grow the monthly benefit meaningfully for each year you wait, much like delaying Social Security; others offer little increase, so starting earlier is fine. Ask for the exact monthly amount at each available age, then weigh the higher lifetime payment against the years of payments you'd give up by waiting. Consider your health and family longevity, whether you need the income now to bridge to Social Security, and which survivor option protects your spouse. If you're delaying Social Security to age 70, a pension can be the perfect bridge income in the meantime. Get the plan's benefit estimates in writing before deciding, since the numbers vary widely by employer.