### Question
What is the definition of earliest retirement age?


### Answer
The definition of **earliest retirement age** is as follows in *29 U.S.C. § 1056*:

> the earlier of—


(I) the date on which the participant is entitled to a distribution under the plan, or


(II) the later of the date of [1](#1056_1_target) the participant attains age 50 or the earliest date on which the participant could begin receiving benefits under the plan if the participant separated from service

#### Citation:
  - *29 U.S.C. § 1056*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 18-EMPLOYEE RETIREMENT INCOME SECURITY PROGRAM > SUBCHAPTER I-PROTECTION OF EMPLOYEE BENEFIT RIGHTS > Subtitle B-Regulatory Provisions > part 2-participation and vesting**

