The full retirement age (FRA) for Social Security will remain 67 for individuals born in 1960 or later, according to the Social Security Administration (SSA). While the age to receive full benefits has been gradually increasing from 65 under legislation passed in 1983, it reached its maximum threshold of 67 for those born in 1960 and beyond. There is no scheduled further increase for 2026 or beyond under current law.
Understanding the Full Retirement Age
The full retirement age, sometimes called "normal retirement age," is the point at which a worker can receive their full, unreduced Social Security benefit amount. For decades, the SSA has utilized a sliding scale based on birth year.
- Born in 1937 or earlier: 65
- Born 1938–1942: Incremental increases (e.g., 65 and 2 months for 1938, up to 65 and 10 months for 1942)
- Born 1943–1954: 66
- Born 1955–1959: Incremental increases (e.g., 66 and 2 months for 1955, up to 66 and 10 months for 1959)
- Born 1960 and later: 67
Because everyone turning 67 or older in 2026 was born in 1959 or earlier, they have already reached or surpassed their specific FRA. For anyone born in 1960 or later, the age remains fixed at 67.
Impact on Early and Delayed Filing
While the FRA is stable, your decision on when to claim benefits significantly alters your monthly payment. You can begin claiming retirement benefits as early as age 62, but doing so results in a permanent reduction of your monthly check.
According to SSA guidelines, if you claim at age 62, you will receive approximately 30% less than your full benefit amount. Conversely, if you delay claiming beyond your FRA, your benefit grows by 8% for each year you wait, up until age 70. There is no financial incentive to delay claiming Social Security past age 70, as benefit increases stop at that point.
Why the Age Stays at 67
The transition to age 67 was part of the Social Security Amendments of 1983. Congress implemented this gradual increase to address the long-term solvency of the Social Security trust funds as life expectancy increased.
While some policy proposals periodically surface to raise the retirement age further to account for continued increases in life expectancy, no such legislation has been enacted. For 2026, claimants should use the age of 67 as their benchmark for full benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still retire at 62 in 2026?
Yes. You remain eligible to claim Social Security retirement benefits starting at age 62. However, claiming at 62 results in a permanent reduction in your monthly benefit amount compared to what you would receive at your FRA.
Does the 2026 age change affect disability benefits?
No. The SSA notes that the increase in full retirement age applies specifically to retirement benefits. Once you reach your full retirement age, your Social Security disability benefit automatically converts to retirement benefits, but the amount remains the same.
Does my benefit amount change if I keep working?
Yes. If you continue to work while receiving benefits before your FRA, the SSA may temporarily withhold a portion of your benefits if your earnings exceed certain annual limits. Once you reach your FRA, these earnings tests no longer apply, and you can earn any amount without a reduction in your monthly benefit.