Overview
- Full retirement age is 67 for people born in 1960 or later, so those turning 66 in 2026 would face a permanent reduction if they claim next year.
- People turning 67 in 2026 were born in 1959, whose full retirement age is 66 years and 10 months, and some may also need to enroll in Medicare if not already signed up.
- Delaying benefits beyond full retirement age increases payments by about 8% per year up to age 70, though waiting means postponing income and potentially retirement.
- TikTok and YouTube influencers have urged claiming at 62 and investing the checks in the stock market, a stance at odds with most financial planners.
- Advisor Mary Beth Franklin recommends avoiding claims at 62 unless money is needed or life expectancy is short, and economist Audrey Guo says investing early may only fit those without low‑yield assets who can tolerate market risk.