Social Security Full Retirement Age Adjusts for 2025, Reaching 67 in 2026

The gradual increase in Social Security's full retirement age continues, impacting benefits for millions of Americans.

The full retirement age for Social Security benefits has increased to 66 years and 10 months in 2025, with the age set to reach 67 in 2026 for those born in 1960 or later.
Retirees can still claim benefits as early as age 62, but payments are reduced by up to 30%, while delaying benefits past full retirement age increases payments by 8% annually until age 70.
The adjustment stems from a 1983 law aimed at addressing longer life expectancies and financial pressures on the Social Security system.
The maximum monthly benefit in 2025 is $4,873 for those retiring at age 70, while the average monthly benefit will rise to $1,976 due to a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment.
Experts urge individuals to carefully consider factors like health, life expectancy, and financial needs when deciding when to claim benefits.