Estimate your monthly benefit · Find the best age to claim · 2025
There is no universally 'best' age — it depends on your health, other income sources, and marital status. Claiming at 62 gives you more checks but each is permanently reduced by up to 30%. Waiting until 70 maximizes each check (32% more than at FRA). The break-even age — where lifetime benefits equalize — is typically around age 78–82. If you expect to live past your break-even age, delaying is usually beneficial.
For anyone born in 1960 or later, FRA is 67. For those born 1955–1959, FRA ranges from 66 years and 2 months to 66 years and 10 months. Claiming before FRA permanently reduces your benefit; claiming after FRA (up to age 70) permanently increases it by 8% per year via Delayed Retirement Credits.
The SSA uses your Average Indexed Monthly Earnings (AIME) — the average of your 35 highest earning years. Your AIME runs through the PIA formula: 90% of the first $1,226/month, 32% of AIME between $1,226–$7,391, and 15% above $7,391 (2025 bend points). The result is your monthly benefit at FRA.
Yes, but earnings limits apply. In 2025, if you're under FRA for the full year, SSA withholds $1 for every $2 you earn above $22,320. In the year you reach FRA, SSA withholds $1 for every $3 earned above $59,520. After FRA, you can earn unlimited income with no reduction. Withheld benefits are added back as a higher benefit once you reach FRA.
Up to 85% of your benefit may be taxable. If your combined income (AGI + half your SS benefit) is under $25,000 (single) or $32,000 (married), benefits are not taxable. Between $25k–$34k single ($32k–$44k married), up to 50% is taxable. Above those thresholds, up to 85% is taxable. 13 states also tax Social Security.