As 2025 approaches, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has updated the age requirements to qualify for 100% of retirement benefits. Workers planning to retire in the coming year should pay close attention to these changes, since age 65 is no longer the threshold for accessing full benefits.
Why did the Social Security retirement age change?
Since its creation in 1935 and with the first payments issued in 1942, the Social Security program has adapted to increases in Americans’ life expectancy. In order to keep the fund solvent, the SSA gradually raises the Full Retirement Age (FRA).
The goal is to ensure the system remains financially sustainable in the long term, especially as people today live significantly longer than when the original program was designed.
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What Is the full retirement age for 2025?
For those planning to retire in 2025, the full retirement age is not yet 67, as many commonly believe. That age applies only to individuals born in 1960 or later—and it won’t take full effect until after 2025.
If you were born between January and September of 1959, your full retirement age is 66 years and 8 months.
If you were born between October and December of 1959, you’ll receive 100% of your benefits at age 66 years and 10 months.
These adjustments will remain in effect through November 1, 2026. Starting in 2027, age 67 will become the new standard for full retirement for anyone born in 1960 or after.
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How can you determine your exact FRA with Social Security?
The Social Security Administration offers a variety of free online tools to help you find out your precise Full Retirement Age:
Retirement Age Calculator: You can find your FRA based on your year of birth by using the SSA’s official calculator.
Benefit Reduction Chart: If you’re thinking about retiring before reaching your FRA, this chart will show how much your monthly payment will be reduced
Social Security Statement: One of the most important tools for planning your retirement is accessing your Social Security Statement. You can view it by creating a free account through my Social Security on the SSA’s official website.
Applying before reaching your full retirement age can permanently reduce your monthly benefits. That’s why it’s essential to plan ahead, review your savings and investments, and evaluate your personal needs before making a final decision.