age 62
You can start receiving your Social Security retirement benefits as early as age 62. However, you are entitled to full benefits when you reach your full retirement age. If you delay taking your benefits from your full retirement age up to age 70, your benefit amount will increase.

How much can you make before Social Security is taken away?

If you will reach full retirement age in 2021, the limit on your earnings for the months before full retirement age is $50,520. Starting with the month you reach full retirement age, there is no limit on how much you can earn and still receive your benefits.

What are two requirements for Social Security eligibility?

You can receive Social Security benefits based on your earnings record if you are age 62 or older, or disabled or blind and have enough work credits. Family members who qualify for benefits on your work record do not need work credits.

You can start your retirement benefit at any point from age 62 up until age 70, and your benefit will be higher the longer you delay starting it. This adjustment is usually permanent: it sets the base for the benefits you’ll get for the rest of your life.

How much money can you have in the bank if you draw Social Security?

Because SSDI is this type of benefit, a person’s assets have nothing to do with their potential eligibility to draw and collect SSDI. In other words, whether you have $50 or $50,000 in the bank makes no difference to the SSA.

When do you become eligible for Social Security benefits?

Today, seniors become eligible for full Social Security retirement benefits at age 66 or 67 depending on their birth year, which is also known as their full retirement age (FRA), and whether they or their spouse have met the work credit requirement.

How can I find out if I am eligible for Social Security?

You can check on your eligibility, earnings history and estimated future benefits on the Social Security statement at your online My Social Security account. While you can start collecting retirement benefits at age 62, your payments are reduced if you claim them before reaching full retirement age.

What happens to your Social Security benefits when you reach full retirement age?

In this case, they recalculate your benefit at full retirement age to help you recoup those losses. After you reach full retirement age, you have the option of temporarily suspending your benefits. During a suspension you can rack up delayed retirement credits, which will increase your eventual payments.

Do you have to take Social Security at age 70?

You don’t have to take Social Security just because you’re retired. If you can live without the income until age 70, you will ensure the maximum payment for yourself and lock in the maximum spousal benefit. Just be sure you have enough other income to keep you going and that your health is good enough that you are likely to benefit from the wait.