Social Security Break-Even Calculator
Compare claiming Social Security at 62, full retirement age or 70 and see the break-even age where waiting pays off.
Advertisement
About the Social Security Break-Even Calculator
You can claim Social Security as early as age 62 or delay until 70. Claiming early gives a smaller monthly check for more years, while waiting gives a larger check for fewer years. The break-even age is when total benefits from waiting catch up with claiming earlier. This calculator uses the standard reduction and delayed-credit rules and your benefit estimate from your Social Security statement.
How to use it
- Enter your monthly benefit at full retirement age from your Social Security statement.
- Choose your full retirement age, a COLA assumption and how long you expect to live.
- Press Find break-even to compare claiming at 62, your full retirement age and 70.
How claiming age changes your benefit (FRA 67)
| Claiming age | Share of full benefit |
|---|---|
| 62 | 70% |
| 63 | 75% |
| 64 | 80% |
| 65 | 86.7% |
| 66 | 93.3% |
| 67 | 100% |
| 68 | 108% |
| 69 | 116% |
| 70 | 124% |
Things this does not include
- Taxes on benefits and the effect of working before full retirement age.
- Spousal and survivor benefits.
- Your health, other income and need for money now.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Social Security break-even age?
The age when the total benefits from claiming later equal what you would have received by claiming earlier. It is often in the late 70s to early 80s.
Should I claim Social Security at 62?
Claiming at 62 permanently reduces your benefit. It may make sense with health issues, a short life expectancy or an urgent need for income.
How much more do I get by waiting until 70?
About 8% more for each year you delay past full retirement age, up to age 70 (24% more at 67 to 70).
Does the COLA matter?
Yes. Annual cost-of-living adjustments increase checks over time, and they apply to larger benefits too.
Where do I find my benefit estimate?
Create a my Social Security account at ssa.gov and view your statement.
Last reviewed: November 2026. Estimates only, not financial, tax or legal advice.