Claiming Rules
How Delayed Retirement Credits Increase Social Security Benefits
Verified against SSA POMS as of August 12, 2026
The short answer
Delayed Retirement Credits (DRCs) increase the amount of your old-age benefit for each month you delay taking benefits starting the month you reach full retirement age, up until age 70. The credits vary by birth year, with a maximum yearly increase of 8% for those born after January 1, 1943. The credits apply only if you do not receive benefits during those months. (RS 00615.692; 20 CFR 404.313)
Understanding Delayed Retirement Credits
Delayed Retirement Credits are earned for each month starting the month you reach full retirement age (FRA) until age 70, during which you do not receive Social Security benefits. These credits increase your benefit amount to encourage delayed claiming. (RS 00615.692; HBK 0720)
RS 00615.692 View source ›Credit Amounts Based on Date of Birth
The credit percentage varies based on your date of birth. For example, individuals born after January 1, 1943, receive a 2/3 of one percent increase per month, totaling an 8% increase per year. (RS 00615.692)
RS 00615.692 View source ›How Credits are Applied
Credits are added to your benefit in January of the following year for credits earned in the previous year or in the month of attainment of age 70. The benefit amount is rounded to the nearest lower multiple of ten cents. (RS00615.690B; 20 CFR 404.313)
20 CFR 404.313 View source ›Impact on Survivor Benefits
Survivors, such as a widow(er), can benefit from the delayed retirement credits earned by the deceased. These credits increase the survivor's monthly benefit amount starting the month of the wage earner's death. (20 CFR 404.313)
20 CFR 404.313 View source ›Frequently asked
How much does my benefit increase with delayed retirement credits?
The increase varies by birth year. For those born after January 1, 1943, it is 2/3 of 1 percent per month, or 8% per year. (RS 00615.692)
What is the maximum age for earning delayed retirement credits?
You can earn credits up to the month you turn age 70. Credits do not accrue beyond this age. (HBK 0720)
Do delayed retirement credits apply if I suspend my benefits?
Yes, delayed retirement credits apply if you suspend benefits after full retirement age. (20 CFR 404.313)
Can delayed retirement credits affect family benefits?
They can increase benefits for your surviving spouse, but not for other family members. (20 CFR 404.313)
When are delayed retirement credits added to my benefit?
They are added in January following the year they are earned, or in the month you turn 70 if earned that year. (20 CFR 404.313)