Social Security Claiming AgeWaiting past full retirement age
The SSA page read on 13 November 2026 says retirement benefits are increased for each month you delay starting them beyond full retirement age, and the increase stops at 70. For people born in 1943 or later the rate is 8% for each 12 months, which is two-thirds of 1% a month. (Earlier birth years have lower rates: 5.5% for 1933-34 up to 7.5% for 1941-42.)
Example: born 1962, full retirement age 67, $1,000 at 67
| Start at age | Share of the full benefit | $1,000 becomes |
|---|---|---|
| 62 | 70.0% | $700 |
| 63 | 75.0% | $750 |
| 64 | 80.0% | $800 |
| 65 | 86.7% | $867 |
| 66 | 93.3% | $933 |
| 67 | 100.0% | $1,000 |
| 68 | 108.0% | $1,080 |
| 69 | 116.0% | $1,160 |
| 70 | 124.0% | $1,240 |
If you stop work before 70 some of the credits are not applied until the January after you start receiving benefits, SSA notes; this site shows the fully credited amount.
Common questions
Does the increase continue after 70?
No. The benefit increase stops when you reach age 70, so there is no gain from waiting longer.
Do I still need Medicare at 65?
SSA advises signing up for Medicare at 65 even if you delay retirement benefits, because coverage may be delayed and cost more otherwise.
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.