Official: US Average Retirement Age Undergoes Permanent Shift

We are all aware that the Social Security system is at risk of running out of money before 2033. As a result, politicians and Congress have discussed changing the average retirement age in the United States. According to recent surveys, the average retirement age in America is sixty-two. However, the majority of workers anticipate to retire by age 67. More than 56% of retirees choose to retire earlier than intended. About 38% of early retirees stated that they were compelled to stop working due to health issues or impairments, emphasizing the importance of health in early retirement planning. Another factor influencing early retirement is the state of the labor market. Of those who retired early, 14% did so due to layoffs.

Many people do not believe it is realistic or appealing to hunt for another work, particularly if they are already considering claiming benefits. In addition, unexpected financial shifts or family dynamics may lead people to reconsider their aspirations. While some people discover they have saved enough money to retire early, for the majority, it is a combination of necessity and circumstance. Furthermore, retiring earlier than expected can be financially challenging for most people because they wind up taking from their assets earlier than planned, lowering the size of their retirement fund over time.

The retirement age will change for retired workers in the United States

According to various surveys, the average American retiree has $269,078 saved for their golden years. This is substantially less than the standard recommendation. Financial gurus recommend setting a goal of approximately $572,000. People who claim Social Security benefits before reaching their full retirement age, which for many is 67, will have their monthly benefits permanently cut. If they retire before the age of 65, they risk having gaps in their coverage. Planning to work additional hours may not be as foolproof as people imagine. Perhaps some Americans are unaware of it, but early retirement is more common than people realize, owing to health issues, layoffs, and other unplanned life events.

Without sufficient reserves, the financial position may soon become difficult. Although each person’s circumstances are unique, those who want more control over their retirement years may benefit from increasing their savings now and having a backup plan in place. Reevaluating your retirement plan is always a smart idea if you want to know where you stand. Financial advisors may help you revise your savings plan, look over your investment options, and ensure you’re prepared for any unexpected situations that may force you into early retirement.

Lowering the retirement age may not be the greatest solution

Retirement has become one of the most pressing issues as the average age of the population rises in many nations, making the issue of investing in financial, medical, and community assistance for older persons in retirement a major political concern. According to Statista, the average full-time pay for an American employee is $74,738, but this figure varies significantly depending on geographic area, industry, race, gender, and other characteristics. In 2022, nearly 34% of the US population made less than $50,000 per year. Even with the federal government’s annual modifications to the cost of living adjustment (COLA), many people who have contributed to the Social Security system throughout decades of employment may find that their ultimate monthly benefit check is unlikely to cover their living expenditures.

For this reason, workers in the United States frequently use privatized retirement savings accounts such as 401Ks or IRAs, although contributing to these accounts can be difficult, especially in an uncertain economic situation. Will young Americans be allowed to choose that option, though? According to a recent TIAA Institute study, 15% of people who have not yet reached retirement age have no intention of retiring, while 47% are “very” or “somewhat” positive they will reach this milestone on time. Furthermore, confidence is lowest among Americans aged 22 to 34, as well as Hispanics (37% each). Due to the difficult-to-reach and insufficient social safety net, many Americans choose to retire later—if at all—to maintain access to healthcare and crucial income.