>>Having worked for the US GVT for over 40 years my advice is to take what can get now, do not wait. If the GVT recommends you wait it is for their benefit, not yours.
But great luck to you, hope it works.<<
That is an interesting perspective. Since I am not depending on it (I could retire today so it isn’t really needed) it might make sense.
I already have started taking my California pension (not much but it covers my Medical Insurance as I am self-employed) based on a similar analysis.
I will think about it and rerun the calculations with some different start date parameters.
What to note.
If you die tomorrow, what will the GVT pay? Note that the US GVT is under no obligation to pay your heirs anything. And other than your wife, your heirs most likely have no claim on what you paid to SS.
In my case I have a 4 year old daughter, she has a claim.