Plain-language definition
Full retirement age is the age at which a worker can start Social Security retirement benefits without the reduction for beginning them early. SSA sets the exact age by year of birth. It is 67 for people born in 1960 or later and falls between 66 and 67 for earlier birth years covered by the current schedule.
Why it matters
Starting retirement benefits before full retirement age generally reduces the monthly amount. Waiting beyond full retirement age may produce delayed retirement credits through age 70. The retirement earnings test also stops applying beginning with the month a worker reaches full retirement age.
It is not one universal retirement date
Full retirement age does not require a person to stop working or claim benefits. It is not the earliest retirement age, which is generally 62 for a worker's retirement benefit. It also does not replace Medicare enrollment rules, which commonly use age 65 and can require separate action.
Retirement and survivor rules can differ
A person's full retirement age for survivor benefits may differ from the age used for their own retirement benefit. Check the SSA schedule for the specific type of benefit instead of assuming one age controls every Social Security claim.
Practical example
A worker may stop working at 64 but wait until full retirement age to start Social Security. Stopping work, claiming retirement benefits, and reaching full retirement age are three separate events, although each can affect the benefit calculation.
Official sources
- SSA — See your full retirement age
- SSA — Glossary of Social Security terms
- SSA — Retirement age and when you stop working