Fact checked by Vikki Velasquez If you're nearing retirement, you’ve probably wondered when to start taking Social Security benefits. For years, age 65 was considered the “normal” retirement age, but a law passed in 1983 gradually raised this age to reflect the increasing life expectancy of Americans.

If you've learned anything about Social Security, you probably have some big questions -- such as, is it running out of money? And when should I claim my benefits? The answer to the first question is yes -- the program's surplus is turning into a deficit,