Changes are made to the program every year, from the amount of the cost-of-living adjustment to more fundamental modifications.

Some married couples can maximize Social Security benefits when the lower-earning spouse files for benefits first, even before their full retirement age.

At age 67, those born in 1960 or later qualify for what’s considered their full retirement benefit from Social Security. That means you get the full amount you qualify for, instead of having benefits reduced if you take them early, starting at age 62.

While there's a basic rule of thumb regarding retirement savings, you can't count on these general rules to guide your retirement.

According to the Congressional Budget Office, raising the retirement age from 67 to 69 would cut lifetime benefits by up to 13 percent for those born after 1971. The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget estimates such a move would only cover about 35 percent of the funding shortfall—leaving policymakers to pursue additional steps.

Some big changes are coming to Social Security in 2026 that you need to know about if you are nearing retirement. One of those key changes has to do with the full retirement age for Social Security.