Starting in 2026, the Social Security full retirement age (FRA) will gradually climb again. For people born in 1960 or later, your FRA is now 67 – two years later than it was for your parents. This isn’t brand-new, but the final phase locks in next year.
A Quick History of Retirement Age Changes
- 1935: Age 65 set as original retirement age
- 1983: Congress slowly raised it to 67 to keep Social Security solvent
- 2026: The last group (born 1960+) officially hits the new 67 mark
Why This Change Matters to YOU Right Now
If you were counting on retiring at 65 or even 66 with full benefits, you’ll now get penalized 13–20% less per month if you claim early. That’s thousands of dollars a year gone – money many were hoping would combine with stimulus checks or side income.
How the New Rule Could Affect Your Stimulus & Savings
| Birth Year | Full Retirement Age | Monthly Reduction if Claiming at 62 |
|---|---|---|
| 1959 | 66 + 10 months | 29.17% |
| 1960 & later | 67 | 30% |
Waiting until 70 still boosts benefits by 24%, but many hobbyists and gig workers rely on turning 62–65 to finally relax.
Key Numbers & Statistics You Need to Know
| Scenario | Yearly Loss at Age 62 Claim (avg benefit) |
|---|---|
| Current rule (pre-2026 final phase) | ~$6,800 less per year |
| New 2026 rule (born 1960+) | ~$7,900 less per year |
That extra $1,100+ per year is real money for travel, hobbies, or just paying bills.
Expert Tips to Retire on YOUR Terms Anyway
- Max out Roth IRAs & 401(k)s now – tax-free growth beats Social Security drama
- Build a “bridge” account you can tap from 62–67
- Consider part-time passion income (many in the stimulus community already do this!)
- Delay Social Security until 70 if health allows – 8% growth per year is unbeatable
- Talk to a fee-only planner in 2025 – beat the rush
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I still get stimulus checks after the retirement age change?
A: Yes! Stimulus programs are separate from Social Security rules.
Q: Will the retirement age go to 68 or 70 soon?
A: Not scheduled yet, but experts watch the trust fund balance closely.
Q: Does this affect disability or survivor benefits?
A: No – those rules stay the same.
Final Thoughts – Take Control Today
The 2026 retirement age increase is locked in, but your future isn’t. A few smart moves today – boosting savings, exploring stimulus-style side income, or simply planning to wait longer for bigger checks – can completely cancel out the new rules. Don’t let Washington decide when you stop working. Start adjusting your plan this week, share this post with friends who need the heads-up, and drop a comment below: Were you already expecting to work until 67… or did this just change everything?