The retirement age has changed in 2025, affecting millions of Americans.
The retirement age marks when seniors can claim full monthly benefits. While benefits can still be claimed as early as age 62, the payments will be reduced.
With this adjustment, seniors should carefully consider when to file for benefits, as their decision could lead to higher or lower payouts over time. The monthly check is influenced by retirement age and earnings during their career.
Social Security
A line forms outside the Social Security Administration office on February 2, 2005, in San Francisco, California. The full retirement age undergoes changes in 2025. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images
What To Know
In 2025, individuals born between 1943 and 1954 will have a full retirement age of 66. However, those born after will need to wait longer.
- Born in 1955: Full retirement age is 66 years and 2 months.
- Born in 1956: Full retirement age is 66 years and 4 months.
- Born in 1957: Full retirement age moves to 66 years and 6 months.
- Born in 1958: Full retirement age is 66 years and 8 months.
- Born in 1959: Full benefits start at 66 years and 10 months.
- Born in 1960 and beyond: Full retirement age is set at 67.
By 2025, individuals born in the last eight months of 1958 will reach full retirement age, as will those born in the first two months of 1959 toward the end of the year.
What People Are Saying
Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor at the University of Tennessee at Martin, explained:
“Years ago, Congress established a system to gradually increase the qualifying age for Social Security benefits. The full retirement age depends on your birth year, creating the perception that Congress is actively raising it now—which isn’t true.
“You can still claim benefits starting at age 62. The increase applies to those choosing to wait until full retirement age for higher payouts.”
Michael Ryan, finance expert and founder of MichaelRyanMoney.com, added:
“This change isn’t just administrative; it reflects rising life expectancies and the financial strain on Social Security.”
What Happens Next
Seniors filing for benefits before their full retirement age will receive reduced payments. On the other hand, waiting beyond full retirement age increases the amount each year, maxing out at age 70.
In 2025, the cost-of-living adjustment rises by 2.5%, boosting the average monthly payment from $1,927 to $1,976.