At what age can individuals begin receiving reduced Social Security retirement benefits?

Individuals can begin receiving reduced Social Security retirement benefits at age 62. This age is significant because it marks the earliest point at which workers can claim their retirement benefits, albeit at a lower rate compared to what they would receive if they wait until their full retirement age. The Social Security Administration allows for this reduction to accommodate those who may need financial assistance earlier in retirement.

While claiming benefits earlier than the full retirement age provides immediate access to funds, it also results in a permanent reduction in the monthly benefit amount. This reduction is calculated based on the number of months before full retirement age that an individual begins to receive benefits. Options like age 55, 65, and 70 do not align with the established rules for claiming Social Security benefits at a reduced rate. Age 65 is typically associated with Medicare eligibility rather than Social Security benefits, and age 70 is when individuals can receive delayed retirement credits leading to a higher benefit, not a reduced one. Hence, age 62 is the correct age for starting reduced benefits.