You can begin getting Social Security retirement benefits as early as age 62. But we will reduce your benefits by as much as 30 percent below what you would get if you waited to retire until your full retirement age. If you wait until your full retirement age (66 for most people), you will get your full benefit. You also can wait until age 70 to start your benefits. Then, we will increase your benefit because you earned “delayed retirement credits.”
When you’re ready to apply for retirement benefits, use our online retirement application, the quickest, easiest, and most convenient way to apply.
More Information
Benefits By Year Of Birth
Delayed Retirement Credits
What Is The Best Age To Start Your Benefits?
Early or Late Retirement Benefits
Factors That May Affect Your Benefits
When To Start Receiving Retirement Benefits
Social Security retirement publications