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USUS ยท 2026 assumptions ยท Free

Social Security Calculator 2026

Compare claiming at 62, 67, or 70, estimate lifetime income to age 85, and model a simplified spousal benefit.

2026-style simplified estimate โ€” not an official SSA benefit statement. Wage base $184,500; earnings credit threshold $1,890 (max 4/yr); COLA 2.8%.

6270

Indexed to 35-year career

Retiring at 62 vs 67 โ€” cumulative benefits to a given age are roughly equal around age 78.7. Claiming at 62 pays sooner; waiting until 67 pays more per month afterward.

Taxation note: Up to 85% of your Social Security benefit may be taxable if your combined income exceeds $34,000 (single) or $44,000 (married).

Monthly benefit

$1,969

At your chosen retirement age (67)

At full retirement age (67)$1,969
At age 70 (max)$2,441
Annual benefit$23,625
Lifetime to age 85$425,250

Benefit by claiming age

Age 62$1,378Age 67$1,969Age 70$2,441

Already collecting? Benefits rise 3.6% in January 2027. The Social Security COLA 2027 calculator shows your new payment after the Medicare Part B premium, plus your 2027 payment dates.

Disclaimer

This is not an official Social Security Administration estimate. Actual benefits depend on your full earnings history, WEP/GPO, family benefits, and SSA rules. For a personal statement, use my Social Security.

Frequently asked questions

When can I start collecting Social Security?

You can start collecting Social Security retirement benefits as early as age 62, but your benefit will be permanently reduced by up to 30%. Full retirement age is 67 for those born in 1960 or later.

How is my Social Security benefit calculated?

The SSA calculates your benefit based on your 35 highest-earning years, adjusted for inflation. This produces your AIME (Average Indexed Monthly Earnings), which is then run through a formula to determine your PIA (Primary Insurance Amount).

What happens if I delay Social Security past 67?

For every year you delay past your full retirement age (67), your benefit increases by 8% per year, up to age 70. Delaying from 67 to 70 increases your monthly benefit by 24%.

Can my spouse collect Social Security based on my record?

Yes. A spouse can receive up to 50% of your full retirement benefit, even if they never worked. They receive whichever is higher โ€” their own benefit or the spousal benefit.

Will Social Security run out of money?

The SSA trust fund is projected to be depleted around 2033โ€“2035, after which incoming payroll taxes could still cover about 75โ€“80% of scheduled benefits. No benefits are expected to be eliminated entirely.

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