Understanding your full retirement age is one of the most important steps in planning when to claim Social Security. In 2026, the rules remain tied to your birth year, and knowing where you fall on the chart can significantly affect your monthly benefit amount.
Here’s what you need to know about the 2026 Social Security retirement age schedule and how it impacts your income.
Who Sets the Retirement Age Rules
The official retirement age guidelines are established and managed by the Social Security Administration. Your “Full Retirement Age” (FRA) is the age at which you can claim 100% of your calculated benefit based on your lifetime earnings.
Claiming before or after that age changes your monthly payout permanently.
Full Retirement Age Chart for 2026
Your FRA depends on the year you were born:
Born 1958 – Full Retirement Age is 66 and 8 months
Born 1959 – Full Retirement Age is 66 and 10 months
Born 1960 or later – Full Retirement Age is 67
These ages apply to retirement benefits. Disability benefits convert to retirement benefits automatically at your FRA.
What Happens If You Claim at 62
Age 62 remains the earliest you can start receiving Social Security retirement benefits. However, claiming at 62 results in a permanent reduction of up to 30% compared to waiting until your FRA.
The earlier you claim, the larger the reduction.
What Happens If You Delay Until 70
For each year you delay claiming beyond your FRA up to age 70, you earn delayed retirement credits. This increases your monthly benefit by approximately 8% per year.
Waiting until 70 can significantly boost lifetime income, especially if you expect a longer lifespan.
How Retirement Age Affects Spousal and Survivor Benefits
Full retirement age rules also impact spousal and survivor benefit calculations. Claiming early may reduce the amount available to a spouse, while delaying can increase survivor protection.
Married couples often benefit from coordinating their claiming strategy.
Key Planning Considerations for 2026
When deciding when to claim, consider:
Life expectancy
Current income needs
Health status
Other retirement savings
Tax implications
Your personal financial situation should guide your timing decision.
Conclusion: The 2026 Social Security retirement age chart confirms that full retirement age ranges between 66 and 67 depending on birth year. Claiming early reduces benefits permanently, while delaying can increase lifetime income. Understanding your FRA is critical for making informed retirement decisions that protect your financial future.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about Social Security retirement age rules. Individual circumstances vary. For official and personalized information, consult the Social Security Administration or a qualified financial professional.