For decades, turning 62 has marked the starting point of retirement for millions of Americans. But while it is the earliest age you can claim Social Security, it’s far from the best option if your goal is to receive the maximum monthly benefit. Now, the U.S. government has clarified what many financial experts have long advised: waiting longer pays off.
Planning for retirement in the U.S. means understanding how your work history, age, and income all play into your final benefit. Fortunately, the Social Security Administration (SSA) offers a series of tools to help workers estimate their retirement income, determine the optimal age to file, and verify whether continuing to work will impact their payments.
How Many Years Do You Need to Work to Retire in the U.S.?
To qualify for Social Security retirement benefits, you need to earn at least 40 work credits, which usually equals 10 years of work. Credits are earned by working and paying Social Security taxes. As of 2025, you can earn up to four credits per year, depending on your income.
Although you’re allowed to start collecting benefits at age 62, doing so will permanently reduce your monthly checks. If you work while receiving benefits before reaching full retirement age, your payments may also be reduced temporarily depending on how much you earn.
When Will You Receive the Highest Social Security Check?
Your full retirement age (FRA) depends on your birth year—typically between 66 and 67 for most people. But if you delay claiming benefits until age 70, your monthly payment will be significantly higher. After 70, your benefit amount no longer increases, so there’s no advantage in waiting beyond that.
To make a well-informed decision, the SSA provides several official tools:
- The Social Security Retirement Benefits Planner, which helps you find the best time to start collecting.
- A my Social Security account, where you can review your earnings, get estimates, and manage your benefits.
- Social Security retirement calculators, which let you project your future payments based on your situation.
You can also visit usa.gov to explore planning worksheets and retirement savings guidance to better prepare for your financial future.
