US: What Social Security retirement age set to change in 2025

The full retirement age for Social Security recipients in the United States will increase again in 2025, marking another adjustment under the system designed to reflect longer life expectancies.

According to the Social Security Administration, this is the latest in a series of gradual changes introduced after a 1983 Congressional law.

For decades, the full retirement age when workers can claim 100% of their retirement benefits was 65.

However, it has steadily risen by two months for each subsequent birth year. For instance, individuals born in 1958 reach full retirement age at 66 years and 8 months, while those born in 1959 will hit it at 66 years and 10 months. This latter group will be eligible for full benefits in 2025. For workers born in 1960 or later, the full retirement age increases to 67.

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The rising retirement age also affects benefit amounts for those who choose early or delayed payouts. Workers can begin receiving benefits at 62 but at a reduced rate.

For example, someone born in 1959 who starts benefits at 62 would receive $708 from a $1,000 monthly benefit, compared to the full amount if they wait until 66 years and 10 months. On the other hand, delaying benefits until age 70 can yield a higher monthly payout.

Beyond the retirement age adjustment, other Social Security changes in 2025 include a smaller cost-of-living adjustment of 2.5%, down from 3.4% this year.

Maximum taxable earnings will also rise from $168,000 to $176,100, and Social Security offices will begin offering appointment-based services nationwide.

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