Social Security imposes a steep penalty for claiming benefits before your FRA. If I begin receiving retirement benefits at age 62, I'll make 30% less than I would if I waited until my FRA of 67. And if I hold off until age 70 to claim benefits, the amount increases by 24% more.

In the United States, the minimum age to apply for Social Security retirement benefits is 62. However, opting for early retirement comes with a 30% reduction in monthly benefits. This article explores whether you can continue working full-time while receiving these benefits and how it impacts your financial future.

So, anyone that claims Social Security as soon as possible — thereby incurring the largest benefit reduction (30% for those born in 1960 or later) — would shortchange themselves by thousands of dollars. That's because delaying benefits beyond age 62 results in a higher payout, though there is no advantage to delaying past 70.

You may have a lot on your plate as you navigate your way through the start of 2025. But it pays to tackle these Social Security moves sooner rather than later so you're able to make savvy decisions that could have a positive impact on your retirement.

Millions of Americans rely on Social Security benefits, and the program is something millions more look forward to when they plan to retire. It's true that signing up for benefits can be a long, drawn out process,

Social Security checks saw a 2.5% boost this month thanks to the latest cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). For most retirees, this is the only benefit increase they can expect all year. Their checks won't go up again until the next COLA takes effect in January 2026.