How to Use the Social Security Full Retirement Age Calculator
Your Social Security Full Retirement Age (FRA) — the age at which you can claim 100% of your calculated benefit — depends entirely on the year you were born. This calculator takes your birth date and instantly shows your official FRA along with the estimated date you become eligible.
Per the Social Security Administration, FRA is 66 for anyone born 1943 through 1954, then increases by 2 months for each birth year from 1955 through 1959 (reaching 66 and 10 months for 1959), and is 67 for everyone born 1960 or later. This gradual increase was phased in to help keep the Social Security system financially sustainable as life expectancy rises.
Keep in mind you can start benefits as early as 62 (at a permanently reduced rate) or delay past FRA up to age 70 for a higher monthly amount. For your exact benefit estimate, check your personalized statement at ssa.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Social Security Administration sets Full Retirement Age based on birth year. It's 66 for people born 1943-1954, gradually rises by 2 months per year for those born 1955-1959, and is 67 for anyone born 1960 or later.
Yes, you can claim as early as age 62, but your monthly benefit is permanently reduced. Conversely, delaying past your Full Retirement Age (up to age 70) increases your monthly benefit through delayed retirement credits.