Under Social Security, what age allows for early retirement benefits to be received?

Social Security allows individuals to begin receiving early retirement benefits at age 62. This is a pivotal age in the Social Security system because it represents the earliest point at which one can start receiving a reduced benefit. While eligible individuals can opt to receive benefits at this age, it is important to note that accepting Social Security benefits early results in a permanent reduction in monthly payments compared to what would be received if they waited until full retirement age, which is between ages 66 and 67 depending on the birth year. Therefore, age 62 marks the threshold for early benefits, making it the correct answer in this context.