As 2026 approaches, many Americans are re-evaluating their retirement plans—and a key factor is knowing your Social Security retirement age 2026. Understanding when you can claim full benefits, how early or delayed retirement affects your monthly check, and what rules apply in the year you reach retirement age can make a significant difference in your long-term financial security. This guide covers everything you need to know.
What Is Social Security Full Retirement Age (FRA)?
Your Full Retirement Age (FRA) is the age at which you become eligible to receive 100% of your Social Security retirement benefit based on your earnings history. Claiming before or after this age results in permanent benefit reductions or increases.
FRA by Birth Year
| Birth Year | Full Retirement Age |
|---|---|
| 1954 or earlier | 66 |
| 1955 | 66 & 2 months |
| 1956 | 66 & 4 months |
| 1957 | 66 & 6 months |
| 1958 | 66 & 8 months |
| 1959 | 66 & 10 months |
| 1960 or later | 67 |
- If you were born in 1960 or later, your FRA is 67.
- In 2026, those turning 67 were born in 1959 (FRA 66 & 10m) or earlier; anyone born in 1959 reaches FRA two months before their 67th birthday.
Early Retirement (Age 62)
- Earliest eligibility: Age 62
- Reduction: Up to 30% permanently reduced benefit if you claim at 62 instead of FRA 67.
- Roughly 5/9 of 1% per month for the first 36 months; 5/12 of 1% per additional month.
- Who it affects in 2026: Individuals born in 1964 will turn 62 in 2026 and could begin benefits at the reduced rate that year.
Delayed Retirement Credits (Ages 67–70)
Delaying benefits past your FRA increases your monthly check by 8% per year (or 2/3% per month), up to age 70:
- Maximum benefit at age 70 = 132% of your FRA benefit.
- No additional credits beyond age 70.
Earnings Test Limits for 2026
If you claim before reaching FRA but continue working, your benefits may be temporarily withheld:
| Year You Reach FRA | Earnings Limit Until Month You Reach FRA | Earnings Limit in FRA Year After FRA Month |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $23,520* | $62,520* |
*2026 figures are projected based on COLA trends; official amounts announced by SSA in late 2025.
- Exceeding the pre-FRA limit: $1 withheld for every $2 over the limit.
- Exceeding the FRA-year limit: $1 withheld for every $3 over the limit—but only for months before your birthday month.
Medicare Eligibility
- Age 65: Regardless of when you claim Social Security, you become eligible for Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and can enroll in Part B (medical insurance).
- Enrollment window: Begins three months before your 65th birthday and ends three months after.
Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA)
The SSA announces annual COLA increases, which adjust your benefit each January. In recent years, COLAs have ranged from 1.3% to over 8%. For 2026, expect an announcement in October 2025 reflecting inflation in late 2024 and mid-2025.
Applying for Benefits in 2026
- When to Apply?
- Up to 4 months before the month you want benefits to start.
- For example, to start in July 2026, apply in March 2026.
- How to Apply?
- Online at ssa.gov
- By phone: 1-800-772-1213
- In person at your local Social Security office
- Documentation Needed
- Birth certificate or proof of birth
- Social Security card
- W-2 forms or self-employment tax returns for the last year
- Bank account information for direct deposit
Strategies to Maximize Your Benefit
- Delay claiming until age 70 if you can afford to—yields the highest monthly benefit.
- Work past age 62 to boost your 35 highest-earning-year average.
- Coordinate spousal benefits: A lower-earning spouse can claim a spousal benefit up to 50% of the higher-earner’s FRA benefit.
- Consider taxation: Up to 85% of benefits may be taxable depending on combined income.
Final Thoughts
Knowing your Social Security retirement age in 2026 and the rules around early and delayed claiming empowers you to make informed decisions. Whether you opt for benefits as early as age 62 or wait until age 70, understanding FRA, reductions, and credits can significantly impact your lifetime income. Start planning now–review your earnings record on SocialSecurity.gov, calculate benefit estimates, and align your Social Security strategy with your broader retirement goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I switch from early to delayed claiming?
No. Once you file for benefits, your start date and your benefit amount are locked in. - What happens if I move abroad?
Most Americans can continue receiving benefits overseas, though a few countries are restricted. - Is there any way to increase benefits after filing?
You can suspend benefits (if you haven’t reached age 70) to earn delayed retirement credits, then restart at the higher rate. - How do COLAs impact my decision?
Bigger COLAs mean larger future raises on top of a higher base benefit—another reason to delay if you can.