Planning to quit work at 65 and live on Social Security? Stop right there. The old “retire at 65 with full benefits” rule died decades ago. In 2025–2026, full benefits start at 66 & 10 months or age 67 — not 65. Claiming at 65 now locks you into a permanent 13%–20% pay cut forever. With average checks around $2,000/month, that’s $3,000–$5,000 gone every single year. This simple 600-word guide shows exactly when you get 100% and how to avoid the biggest retirement mistake millions make.
Your Real Full Retirement Age (FRA) – 2025–2026 Chart
| Birth Year | Full Retirement Age (FRA) | When You Get 100% Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| 1955 | 66 & 2 months | Already passed |
| 1956 | 66 & 4 months | Already passed |
| 1957 | 66 & 6 months | Already passed |
| 1958 | 66 & 8 months | Already passed |
| 1959 | 66 & 10 months | November 2025 – Sep 2026 |
| 1960 & later | 67 | 2027 and beyond |
Born in 1959 and turning 66 in 2025? You must wait until age 66 & 10 months (next summer/fall) for full benefits. Born 1960 or later? Full checks don’t start until exactly 67.
What Happens If You Claim at 65 Anyway?
Example: Your earned benefit at FRA = $2,000/month
| Claim Age | Monthly Check | Yearly Loss vs FRA | Lifetime Loss to Age 85 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age 65 | $1,733–$1,600 | $3,200–$4,800 | $70,000–$105,000 |
| FRA | $2,000 | $0 | $0 |
| Age 70 | $2,480 | +$5,760 gain | +$100,000+ gain |
That 65 cut is permanent — even COLA increases (2.8% in 2026) apply to the smaller amount.
Why the Age Went Up (and Stops Here)
Congress raised FRA in 1983 because we live longer. The climb ends in 2026 at age 67 — no further increases are currently scheduled.
Medicare still starts at 65, but Social Security does not. Two different programs, two different ages.
Smart Moves for Anyone Near 65
- Keep working 1–2 more years – every month past 65 raises your check.
- Use savings or part-time work to bridge the gap to FRA or 70.
- Delay to 70 if healthy – 8% annual bonus (124% of FRA amount).
- Run your exact numbers – free at ssa.gov/myaccount (takes 5 minutes).
Quick Decision Table
| Your Situation | Best Claim Age |
|---|---|
| Health issues, need money now | 62–65 |
| Average health, some savings | 67 (FRA) |
| Great health, married, savings | 70 |
Bottom Line
Retiring at 65 is fine — just don’t expect full Social Security. For everyone born 1959 and later, full benefits start at 66 & 10 months or 67. One year of waiting can add $50,000–$150,000 over your lifetime.
Check your personal FRA today at ssa.gov — it’s the easiest money you’ll ever protect
