Social Security is one of the most important retirement programs in the United States, but confusion about the Full Retirement Age (FRA) never seems to go away. Many people still believe it’s 65, while others insist it’s 67. The truth in September 2025 is that the FRA is neither of those numbers for some retirees. Let’s break down the exact retirement age, how it’s calculated, and what it means for your benefits.
The Exact Full Retirement Age Right Now
As of September 2025, the FRA depends entirely on your birth year:
- If you were born in 1959, your FRA is 66 years and 10 months.
- If you were born in 1960 or later, your FRA is 67 years.
This means those reaching retirement age in 2025 will not qualify for 100% benefits at 65 or even at 66 but at a very specific 66 years and 10 months.
How We Got Here
The confusion comes from Social Security reforms passed back in 1983, which gradually raised the retirement age from 65 to 67. Instead of jumping overnight, the FRA has been moving up in small increments tied to birth years. That’s why someone born in 1959 faces an FRA of 66 years and 10 months, while anyone born after 1960 locks in at 67.
Why It Matters for Your Benefits
The age you claim Social Security makes a big difference in your monthly check:
- Claim at 62: You’ll see a permanent reduction of up to 30%.
- Claim at FRA: You receive 100% of your benefit.
- Delay until 70: You can boost your payment by up to 32% thanks to delayed retirement credits.
Knowing your exact FRA ensures you don’t leave money on the table—or miscalculate when you can expect full benefits.
Quick FRA Chart by Birth Year
| Birth Year | Full Retirement Age (FRA) |
|---|---|
| 1955 | 66 years and 2 months |
| 1956 | 66 years and 4 months |
| 1957 | 66 years and 6 months |
| 1958 | 66 years and 8 months |
| 1959 | 66 years and 10 months |
| 1960 or later | 67 years |
Conclusion: In September 2025, the true Social Security FRA is neither 65 nor 67—it’s 66 years and 10 months for those born in 1959. For everyone born in 1960 or later, the full retirement age is set at 67. Understanding this timeline helps you plan smarter, avoid costly mistakes, and maximize your Social Security benefits.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. For personalized retirement planning, consult the official Social Security Administration (SSA) or a licensed financial advisor.
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