Collecting Social Security Benefits (if eligible)
If you've contributed toward Social Security, you may be eligible for Social Security retirement benefits. You can start collecting Social Security as early as age 62; however, early payment means reduced monthly benefits. Likewise, you get a higher benefit the longer you delay your payment start date (until you reach age 70).
What Is Your Full Retirement Age?
Full retirement age for Social Security was 65 for many years. However, starting with people born after 1937, the full retirement age has been increasing—in fact, full retirement age for anyone retiring today (i.e., born in 1944) is 66 or higher. Your annual Social Security statement will tell you your full retirement age.You can apply for your Social Security payments online at www.socialsecurity.gov.