A young man in a denim jacket covers his face with one hand while holding a phone in front of a Social Security Administration building; to the right, a red circle with a red cross over an image of a person holding money. — Pay close attention to this from the SSA of the United States | PixaBay, Grok, Getty Images Signature, en.elcierredigital.com

Camara — Pay close attention to this from the SSA of the United States | PixaBay, Grok, Getty Images Signature, en.elcierredigital.com

Special statement from the SSA to Americans: Official, you're required to comply

The United States Social Security Administration issues a more than necessary reminder: pay attention to your retirement

17/05/2025 11:32:00h

Miguel Cuartas Ortego

The Social Security Administration (SSA) of the United States has issued an important reminder: the minimum age to apply for retirement benefits remains 62 years. However, doing so before reaching full retirement age can significantly reduce the monthly amount you will receive.

SSA reminds thousands of Americans when they can retire: pay close attention

SSA allows workers to start receiving retirement benefits starting at age 62. However, this is the minimum allowed age, not the recommended age. Applying for benefits at 62 means a permanent reduction in the monthly amount you will receive compared to waiting until full retirement age.

A man in a suit holds counterfeit bills in an office.

The Government and the US SSA warn millions of citizens | Grok

On the other hand, full retirement age is the age at which you can receive 100% of your Social Security benefits. This age varies depending on your year of birth. For example, if you were born in 1960 or later, your full retirement age is 67 years.

How is your benefit calculated? Social Security makes it easy

The SSA calculates your benefits based on your indexed average earnings during the 35 years in which you earned the most. If you worked less than 35 years, the missing years are counted as zero earnings, which can reduce your average benefit.

Applying for benefits before your full retirement age results in a permanent reduction of the monthly amount. For example, if your full retirement age is 67 years and you decide to start receiving benefits at 62, you could receive approximately 30% less each month.

A man with a surprised expression looks at a red circle containing hundred-dollar bills, with a background of city skyscrapers.

This is how you can know what your benefit will be | Billion Photos, Getty Images Signature, en.elcierredigital.com

The best age to apply for Social Security in the United States

The truth is that the best age to apply for Social Security benefits depends on your personal circumstances. If you need the income and can't wait, you might consider applying at 62. However, if you can wait, doing so until 70 will increase your monthly benefit.

Before deciding when to apply for your Social Security benefits, consider your financial needs, your health, and your life plans. Use the tools and calculators provided by SSA to estimate your benefits at different ages.

Remember that this notice from SSA is official and is designed to help you make informed decisions about your retirement. Following these guidelines will ensure a smoother transition into your retirement.

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