Social Security is a long-established program that pays retired workers age 65 and older a continuing income after retirement. The age you have to be to retire and start collecting Social Security income depends on the year in which you were born. Whether you are looking to retire early and need Social Security help, or seeking delayed retirement, this section provides basic information on Social Security matters -- such as when to claim Social Security, types of Social Security benefits, the filing process, and how to get more money by working longer. Click on the links below to learn more.