Your Social Security benefit depends on three factors: your lifetime earnings, your full retirement age (FRA), and your claiming age.
Social Security looks at your 35 highest-earning years. These earnings are adjusted for inflation to determine your Primary Insurance Amount (PIA).
Your FRA is when you can receive your full benefit. For those born in 1960 or later, it's age 67.
You can claim as early as 62, but your benefit will be reduced. Waiting past your FRA increases your benefit. The max increase is at age 70.
Benefits generally increase with age. Claiming at 62 gives you the smallest benefit, while waiting until 70 gives you the highest.
Your claiming age is a decision you can control, and it has a big impact on your retirement income.
Understanding these factors can help you plan for a comfortable retirement.
Keep in mind that benefit amounts change over time, so stay informed about the latest figures.
Some strategies can help maximize your Social Security benefits. It's worth exploring them.
With the right knowledge, you can retire confidently and enjoy a more secure financial future.