Social Security is a federal program that provides financial assistance to retired individuals, as well as disabled individuals and survivors of deceased workers. It is funded through payroll taxes.

You can start collecting Social Security benefits as early as age 62, but your monthly benefit amount will be reduced if you start before reaching full retirement age (typically between 66 and 67, depending on your birth year).

Social Security benefits are calculated based on your highest 35 years of earnings, adjusted for inflation. The age at which you start collecting benefits also affects the amount you receive.

Yes, you can work and collect Social Security benefits at the same time. However, if you are below full retirement age, your benefits may be reduced if your earnings exceed a certain limit.

You can maximize your Social Security benefits by waiting to start collecting until you reach full retirement age or even later. This will result in a higher monthly benefit amount.