What is the impact of claiming at age 62 on future benefits?

Claiming Social Security benefits at age 62 has a direct and significant impact on the amount of future retirement benefits a person will receive. When an individual chooses to start collecting Social Security benefits at the earliest eligible age of 62, they are opting for a reduced benefit amount. This reduction occurs because the Social Security Administration (SSA) factors in the number of months benefits are taken before reaching full retirement age (FRA).

Typically, benefits are reduced by a certain percentage for each month benefits are taken early, which can lead to a permanent decrease in the total monthly benefit amount. As a result, even when a person reaches their full retirement age or chooses to delay benefits up to age 70, the lower benefit amount established when they first claimed at age 62 does not change. Therefore, claiming early at age 62 locks in these reduced benefits for life, making it crucial for individuals to weigh their financial needs against long-term benefits comprehensively.

The other choices presented do not accurately reflect the consequences of claiming at age 62. There is a clear reduction in benefits, contrary to any notion that there would be no impact or an increase in future benefits. Thus, the most accurate answer regarding the impact of claiming at age 62 is that it reduces