If you’re planning to retire soon, 2026 brings a major milestone that could directly impact your Social Security benefits. Starting in 2026, the full retirement age (FRA) for Social Security officially reaches 67 for everyone born in 1960 or later. This marks the final shift in a phased schedule that has been in the works for decades.
Let’s break it down in simple terms, so you know how this change affects your retirement planning.
What Is Full Retirement Age Under Social Security?
Your full retirement age is the point at which you’re eligible to receive 100% of your Social Security retirement benefits. You can still claim earlier at age 62—but if you do, your monthly check will be permanently reduced.
Before, many Americans could claim full benefits at age 65. But changes passed in the 1983 amendments to Social Security began gradually raising the FRA to reduce strain on the system.
By 2026, this change is fully phased in: the FRA is now 67 for everyone born in 1960 or later.
Who Is Affected by Social Security Retirement Age 67 in 2026?
If you were born in 1960, you turn 66 in 2026, but you won’t reach full retirement until age 67 in 2027. So, 2026 becomes the turning point when no one will have an FRA under 67 going forward.
Here’s a quick glance:
| Birth Year | Full Retirement Age |
|---|---|
| 1959 | 66 years, 10 months |
| 1960+ | 67 years |
Why Is Social Security Full Retirement Age Increasing to 67?
This shift isn’t sudden. It’s been coming for years. As life expectancy increases and the retired population grows, Social Security faces pressure to stay sustainable. Raising the full retirement age helps stretch the fund by encouraging people to work longer and claim benefits later.
How Social Security Retirement Age 67 Impacts Benefits in 2026
This change may sound small—but it can have a big financial impact, especially if you’re thinking of retiring early.
- If you retire at 62 (the earliest allowed), and your FRA is 67, your benefits will be reduced by about 30%.
- If you delay retirement beyond 67, you’ll receive delayed retirement credits—up to 8% more per year until age 70.
Let’s say your full monthly benefit at age 67 would be $2,000. Here’s how that changes:
- At 62: ~$1,400/month (30% less)
- At 67: $2,000/month
- At 70: ~$2,480/month (24% more)
So, the timing of your Social Security claim really matters.
Retirement Planning Tips in 2026
Whether you’re nearing retirement or still years away, planning is key. Here are some steps you can take:
- Check Your FRA
Visit the Social Security Administration’s website and confirm your full retirement age using their calculator. - Estimate Your Benefits at Retirement Age 67 or Earlier
Use the Retirement Estimator tool to see how much you’ll get at different retirement ages, including early retirement at 62 or delaying until 70. - Consider Your Health and Income Needs
If you’re healthy and can work longer, delaying retirement can pay off in the long run. But if you need income sooner or have health concerns, claiming early might still be best. - Talk to a Financial Advisor About Social Security Timing
Retirement planning is complex. An expert can help you balance Social Security with other sources like 401(k), pensions, or personal savings.
Expert Views
According to retirement analysts, the move to 67 is just the first of many potential changes. With funding concerns looming, lawmakers have floated ideas like:
- Raising the early retirement age
- Increasing payroll taxes
- Modifying the benefit formula for higher earners
While none of these are confirmed, experts recommend staying informed and adjusting your retirement expectations as policy evolves.
Key Takeaways on Social Security Retirement Age 67 for 2026
- In 2026, the full retirement age officially becomes 67 for anyone born in 1960 or later
- Claiming benefits early (at age 62) will lead to larger reductions than before
- Delaying retirement beyond FRA can significantly boost your monthly check
- Plan early, use SSA tools, and consider professional financial advice
Final Thought on Social Security Changes in 2026
The Social Security full retirement age rising to 67 is a historic turning point. It reflects how retirement expectations are changing in a world where people live longer, stay active later in life, and often work well past their 60s.
By understanding how this affects your benefits—and planning accordingly—you can take control of your retirement journey and make the most of what you’ve earned.
