Social Security: Research Shows These Are the Best (and Worst) Ages to File for Benefits

Choosing an age to begin claiming Social Security is one of the most important retirement decisions you'll make, as it will affect your monthly income for the rest of your life. You'll receive 100% of your earned benefit by filing at your full retirement age -- which is between ages 66 and 67, depending on your birth year. Claim earlier than that, and your payment will be reduced by up to 30%. By delaying benefits past your full retirement age, you'll earn up to 32% extra on top of your full benefit. Wil ...