Social Security Benefits Estimator
Estimate your Social Security benefit at different ages and find the optimal time to start claiming.
Last updated: January 2026
Social Security Estimator
When should you claim Social Security?
You can claim Social Security retirement benefits as early as age 62 (with a permanent reduction) or as late as age 70 (with delayed retirement credits). Your Full Retirement Age (FRA) is between 66 and 67, depending on your birth year. Claiming before FRA permanently reduces your benefit; claiming after FRA increases it by 8% per year up to age 70.
The "breakeven age" is the point at which the total lifetime benefits from delaying exceed those from claiming early. If you expect to live past your breakeven age, delaying makes financial sense. If not, claiming earlier may be better.
Factors to consider
Your decision depends on your health, life expectancy, other retirement income, marital status, and tax situation. Spousal benefits and survivor benefits add complexity. Use this calculator as a starting point, and consult a financial advisor for personalized advice.
This is an estimate. Actual benefits determined by the SSA.