https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/why-did-so-many-people-file-early-for-social-security-last-yearContinuously updated, source-cited coverage. https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/why-did-so-many-people-file-early-for-social-security-last-yearhttps://www.live-feeds.com/feed/why-did-so-many-people-file-early-for-social-security-last-year#u181496Fri, 06 Nov 2026 14:16:04 +0000A recent spike in early Social Security claims has disrupted a trend where older Americans stayed in the labor force longer and delayed retirement. Experts point to well-publicized turmoil at the government agency last year as a potential spark that prompted many workers to file ahead of their optimal retirement age. Claiming benefits early at age 62 instead of waiting until full retirement age results in a permanent monthly reduction. For anyone born in 1960 or later, claiming at 62 brings a 30 percent cut to checks that follows retirees for life.Why it mattersEconomic researchers previously