Social Security claimants drive 11% surge in 2025 filings
Updated
Updated · IndexBox, Inc. · May 2
Social Security claimants drive 11% surge in 2025 filings
11 articles · Updated · IndexBox, Inc. · May 2
The rise came as some Americans, including unusually high numbers of higher earners, claimed benefits early at 62 amid concern over the programme and SSA staffing changes.
Claiming at 62 can permanently cut benefits by up to 30% versus waiting until 67, with new 62-year-old claimants averaging $1,335 a month in December 2025 against $2,521 for 67-year-olds.
In 2024, 26% of 3.25 million new claimants filed at 62, the lowest share in at least 40 years, even as the trust fund is projected to be depleted by 2032.
Why are wealthy Americans suddenly rushing to claim Social Security benefits early?
Are crippling delays at the SSA forcing Americans into premature retirement decisions?
With benefit cuts looming by 2032, is waiting to claim Social Security now a costly mistake?