Social Security Claiming AgeStarting benefits early
You can start Social Security retirement benefits as early as 62, but you are entitled to the full amount only at your full retirement age. The SSA page read on 13 November 2026 gives this table:
| Born | Full retirement age | Months before it | Cut at 62 | $1,000 becomes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 to 1954 | 66 | 48 | 25.00% | $750 |
| 1955 | 66 and 2 months | 50 | 25.83% | $741 |
| 1956 | 66 and 4 months | 52 | 26.67% | $733 |
| 1957 | 66 and 6 months | 54 | 27.50% | $725 |
| 1958 | 66 and 8 months | 56 | 28.33% | $716 |
| 1959 | 66 and 10 months | 58 | 29.17% | $708 |
| 1960 or later | 67 | 60 | 30.00% | $700 |
If you were born on the 1st of a month, SSA figures your benefit and full retirement age as if your birthday were in the previous month; born on 1 January means the previous December. The percentages are approximate because of rounding.
Spouse’s benefit
The most a spouse can get is 50% of the benefit the worker would receive at full retirement age; the early-claiming cut is applied after that 50%. SSA’s table shows $500 becoming $350 for those born 1943 to 1954 (a 30% cut) and $325 for those born 1960 or later (35%).
Common questions
Do I get a smaller benefit for life if I start early?
The SSA page says your benefits will be reduced a small percentage for each month before your full retirement age.
How early can I start?
As early as age 62, for the whole month: you must be at least 62 for the entire month.
Source
- Social Security Administration, Benefits Planner: "Retirement Age and Benefit Reduction" and "Delayed Retirement Credits", ssa.gov, read on 13 November 2026.
Rules read on 13 November 2026 from the Social Security Administration website. They may have changed since. This site is independent, not connected with the SSA, and gives estimates, not advice. Your own benefit is on your my Social Security statement.