You can start receiving Social Security at age 62, but benefits generally increase the longer you defer them. Claiming at 62 in 2026 gives a maximum of $2,969 per month, roughly 30% less than waiting until 67. For anyone born in 1960 or later, full retirement age is 67, with a maximum of $4,152 per month, while waiting until 70 yields the highest benefit at $5,181 per month in 2026, though it may require working a few extra years. The right age depends on savings, other income and a spouse's benefits, and some retirees tap their 401(k)s or IRAs to delay claiming (the so-called bridge strategy). A higher-earning spouse may wait longer for a larger benefit, and continuing to work can replace lower-earning years in the benefit calculation.
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Original headline: What Happens If You Claim Social Security at 62 , 67 or 70 ?
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