Claiming Social Security at 62 cuts benefits 30%, and filling that income gap without selling principal requires between $300,000 and $350,000 in Treasury ladders and dividend ETFs. The Income Math, No Principal Touched"Without touching your savings" means every dollar comes from Social Security, interest, or dividends. That leaves a gap of roughly $400 to $1,350 a month to fill from portfolio income. Do that, and $3,000 a month in Margaritaville at 62 works without a single share sold. Before Your Next Withdrawal, Run One Number ( It's Not The 4% Rule Everyone Knows)Take your essential monthly expenses and subtract your guaranteed income — Social Security, plus any pension.