Social Security is one of the most talked-about programs among older Americans, yet many people are unclear on how it really works. Whether it’s about when to claim, how benefits are calculated, or how work and marriage affect your payments, questions are common, and confusion is just as widespread.
Millions of Americans make decisions based on myths, half-truths, or outdated information. Knowing the right answers to some of the most frequently asked questions could mean the difference between getting what you deserve and missing out on money you’ve earned over decades of work.
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Social Security Facts Most People Miss
With so many retirees depending on Social Security to cover basic living costs, knowing the right information at the right time is critical. Here you can check all the five important questions that most Americans continue to get wrong, and why getting them right could make a real difference in your retirement income.
Earliest Age to File: Not Just “62”
Many believe they can begin receiving Social Security as soon as they turn 62. In reality, while 62 is the earliest age, eligibility depends on being fully through the month of your 62nd birthday, unless you were born on the 1st or 2nd, in which case your birth month counts. Otherwise, you must wait until the following month.
Applying at 62 counts as filing early if you’re below your full retirement age (FRA). The result: Social Security reduces your payments, or “benefit amount”, by up to 30%. For some, early filing might be necessary. But for others, it means leaving money on the table.
Best Age for Maximum Monthly Check
Only about a quarter of those surveyed knew that turning age 70 is the point at which you earn your largest monthly benefit. Many mistakenly believe you must file earlier or even wait past 70.
Your benefit grows each month you delay filing, up to age 70. Past that point, there are no further increases. Waiting longer won’t increase your benefit, so if you haven’t filed by 70, you’re effectively giving yourself a raise that never happens.
What Is “Full Retirement Age” (FRA)?
Over one-third of respondents guessed FRA was 65. Another 25% admitted they didn’t know at all. For decades 65 was common, but that changed decades ago as part of program reforms.
If you were born in 1960 or later, your FRA is 67. If you’re older, it may fall between 65 and 67 depending on your birth year. Filing at your FRA earns you your complete benefit, not penalized, nor credited for delay beyond.
Can You File on Your Ex‑Spouse’s Record?
Only around half the survey takers recognized that you can file an ex‑spouse’s benefits, but only if you were married at least 10 years.
- You must have been married to the ex for at least 10 years.
- You must be unmarried when filing (though remarriage in your ex’s case doesn’t stop your eligibility).
- If remarried yourself, you must file based on your current spouse instead.
- Filing on your ex‑spouse’s record does not affect their new spouse’s benefits either.
What Happens When You’re Working Before FRA?
If you begin collecting before FRA and continue working, your extra earnings can temporarily reduce your Social Security check. In 2025, if you’re entirely under FRA, Social Security deducts $1 for every $2 over $23,400. Those reaching FRA during 2025 face a $1 reduction for every $3 earned over $62,160, until they reach FRA.
Those withheld amounts aren’t gone forever. Once you hit FRA, the SSA recalculates your benefits to credit you for what was held back, meaning you eventually receive what you were due.
Understanding these five key points can make a real difference in how and when you file Social Security. Small misunderstandings may cost you significant amounts. A deeper understanding helps you make a plan, especially if you’re deciding between filing early, waiting longer, or working while claiming. A quick chat with a Social Security representative may offer clarity tailored to your situation.