The debate over the appropriate full retirement age to claim Social Security benefits has persisted for decades. Since the first major financial strain on the Social Security system in the early 1980s, there have been gradual increases to the full retirement age, climbing from 65 to 67 years old. This change has been implemented in phases to minimize the impact on those awaiting retirement.
The staggered approach ensured that individuals experienced only minor delays—two months at a time—depending on their birth year. By 2025, those born in 1958 and 1959 will see their retirement milestones arrive, with the full retirement age reaching 67 years for individuals born in 1960 or later.
Key Retirement Dates for 2025 and 2026
To help beneficiaries plan for retirement, the Social Security Administration has provided detailed tables matching birth years to retirement dates. Here is the timeline for workers born between June 1958 and December 1959 who plan to retire in 2025 and 2026:
| Retirement Month | Birth Month/Year |
|---|---|
| January 2025 | Born in June 1958 |
| February 2025 | Born in July 1958 |
| March 2025 | Born in August 1958 |
| May 2025 | Born in September 1958 |
| June 2025 | Born in October 1958 |
| July/August 2025 | Born in November 1958 |
| September 2025 | Born in December 1958 |
| October 2025 | Born in January 1959 |
| November 2025 | Born in February 1959 |
| December 2025 | Born in March 1959 |
| January 2026 | Born in April 1959 |
| February 2026 | Born in May 1959 |
| March 2026 | Born in June 1959 |
| April 2026 | Born in July 1959 |
| May 2026 | Born in August 1959 |
| June 2026 | Born in September 1959 |
| July 2026 | Born in October 1959 |
| August 2026 | Born in November 1959 |
| September 2026 | Born in December 1959 |
Claiming Social Security Benefits
For those looking to claim benefits as soon as they reach their full retirement age, timing is critical. Filing too early, even by accident, could result in reduced benefits. The Social Security Administration recommends filing several months in advance to avoid delays and ensure accurate payment.
If you file later than your exact retirement age, there is no penalty—beneficiaries can even benefit by accumulating an additional month of income.
Maximize Your Benefits with Delayed Retirement Credits
Workers who delay claiming Social Security benefits beyond their full retirement age can take advantage of Delayed Retirement Credits (DRCs). These credits increase monthly benefits until age 70, at which point credits stop accruing, and benefits must begin.
For example, a worker born in 1959 who retires at age 70 will see their benefit increase to 125.3% of their full retirement age amount. DRCs grow month to month, meaning the longer an individual delays retirement—up to age 70—the greater their monthly income will be.
Planning for Retirement
As retirement age milestones approach for many Americans born in the late 1950s, planning is key. Whether choosing to claim benefits as soon as possible or delaying retirement for higher monthly payouts, understanding the options ensures retirees can make the most of their Social Security benefits.
For further assistance, the Social Security Administration provides tools and tables to help future beneficiaries calculate their retirement age and estimate benefits. With careful planning, workers can secure a financially stable and rewarding retirement.