Social Security Benefits Guide
When to claim, spousal benefits, and maximizing your income
Full Retirement Age (FRA)
Your FRA depends on your birth year. For most people today, it's 67.
| Birth Year | Full Retirement Age |
|---|---|
| 1960 or later | 67 |
| 1955-1959 | 66 + 2-10 months |
| 1954 or earlier | 66 |
Claiming Age Impact
Age 62
~30% reduction
Good if: need income now, health concerns, no other income
Age 67 (FRA)
100% of PIA
Good if: balanced approach, average health
Age 70
+24% increase
Good if: good health, other income, maximize for spouse
Spousal Benefits
A spouse can receive up to 50% of the worker's PIA if claimed at FRA.
Must be married at least 1 year
Divorced spouse eligible if married 10+ years
Reduced if claimed before FRA
Worker must have filed or be 62+
Survivor Benefits
Surviving spouses can receive 100% of the deceased's benefit if claimed at their own FRA.
- • Available at age 60 (reduced)
- • Age 50 if disabled
- • Any age if caring for child under 16
Earnings Test (2026)
If you work while receiving benefits before FRA, benefits may be reduced.
Before FRA Year
Earn over $23,400
$1 withheld per $2 above limit
Year You Reach FRA
Earn over $62,160
$1 withheld per $3 above limit
After FRA, there is no earnings test—work as much as you want!
Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA)
Benefits increase annually based on inflation.2026 COLA: 2.5% (projected)
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Visit SSA.gov for official information and your personalized benefit statement.