WhentobeginreceivingSocialSecurityretirement benefitsisapersonaldecision.There'sno"right"age; it depends on multiple factors. These include how long someonewantsto—orisableto—workandhow much retirement income is needed.
Workers are entitled to full benefits at their full retirementage(FRA),whichis67foranyonebornin 1960orlater.ClaimingbeforeFRA(asearlyasage62) will result in a permanently reduced benefit, while claiming later will result in a permanently increased benefit due to delayed retirement credits, which can be earned up to age 70.
Source:SocialSecurityAdministration,2026(basedon 2024 data). ThiscontenthasbeenreviewedbyFINRA.
Prepared by Broadridge Advisor Solutions. ©2026 Broadridge Financial Services, Inc.