Ask Rusty: Retiring early means benefits will be reduced

My benefit will be $1,343 on my full retirement age (FRA). Signed: Confused and WonderingDear Confused: Whenever any Social Security benefit is claimed earlier than full retirement age (FRA), the monthly amount is permanently reduced. When you claim your SS retirement benefit now will not affect your survivor benefit from your husband later. It will only be reduced if you claim before your full retirement age. Russell Gloor is a certified Social Security adviser by the Association of Mature American Citizens: https://amac.us/social-security-advisor.