Full Retirement Age Calculator
Your full retirement age (FRA) decides the base amount of your Social Security benefit and how much claiming early or late changes it. Enter your birth date to see your exact FRA — most people born 1943–1954 retire at 66, while anyone born 1960 or later waits until 67.
How to use this calculator
- Enter birth year.
- Enter birth month.
- Your results appear instantly below and update as you change the numbers.
How this calculator works
The Social Security Administration sets your full retirement age from your birth year: 65 for people born 1937 or earlier, 66 for 1943–1954, gradually rising two months per year to 67 for anyone born 1960 or later. Claiming before FRA permanently reduces your benefit (5/9% per month for the first 36 months early, 5/12% per month after), while every month you delay past FRA adds 8% a year in delayed retirement credits, up to age 70.
Frequently asked questions
Is full retirement age the same as when I should claim?
No. FRA only sets your base benefit and when reductions stop. For most people the break-even analysis matters more: claiming at 62 means smaller checks for longer, and claiming at 70 means bigger checks for a shorter time. Use the break-even calculator here to compare.
Can I work while collecting Social Security before FRA?
Yes, but before FRA the retirement earnings test withholds $1 of benefits for every $3 earned above the annual limit (2026: $23,400). After FRA there is no limit and no withholding.
Why do my coworkers with similar jobs get different FRAs?
FRA depends only on birth year, not on income or work history — a 1962-born worker has an FRA of 67 no matter how much they earn. Your benefit amount depends on your 35 highest-earning years; the age is purely a function of when you were born.
Disclaimer: Results are estimates for general information only and do not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Figures reflect 2026 rules and may change. Always confirm current limits and consult a qualified professional before making decisions. Official figures: IRS.gov · 2026 limits per IRS tax inflation adjustments.