Boost Your Social Security: Boosting your Social Security benefits to $2,187 per month—or even higher—is achievable with strategic planning and awareness of often-overlooked steps. Whether you’re just starting to plan for retirement or already receiving benefits, understanding these strategies can help you maximize your monthly payments and secure a more comfortable retirement.
Boost Your Social Security
| Strategy | Description | Potential Benefit | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delay Claiming Benefits Until Age 70 | Increases monthly benefits by approximately 8% per year delayed (up to age 70) | 24% higher benefit if delayed from 67 to 70 | SSA |
| Work for at Least 35 Years | Social Security calculates benefits based on highest 35 years of earnings | Replaces low-earning years for a higher average benefit | SSA |
| Maximize Earnings Subject to Social Security Tax | Contribute the maximum taxable earnings annually | Increases average lifetime earnings used to calculate benefits | SSA |
| Utilize a “Bridge” Strategy with Retirement Savings | Use savings to delay benefits, increasing eventual payout | Potentially 77% higher monthly payment compared to claiming at 62 | Kiplinger |
| Review and Correct Your Earnings Record | Ensure accurate earnings history for proper benefit calculation | Prevents underpayment of benefits | SSA |
Why Maximizing Your Social Security is Crucial
For many retirees, Social Security is a critical source of income. In fact, it provides the primary financial support for nearly 65 million Americans as of 2024, with an average monthly benefit of approximately $1,850. However, with the right strategies, you can significantly increase this amount, providing greater financial security and peace of mind in retirement.
1. Delay Claiming Benefits Until Age 70
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to boost your Social Security payments is to delay claiming benefits. If you delay past your Full Retirement Age (FRA), you earn Delayed Retirement Credits, which increase your monthly benefit by approximately 8% per year until age 70. For example, if your FRA is 67, waiting until 70 can result in a 24% higher monthly benefit.
2. Work for at Least 35 Years
Social Security benefits are based on your highest 35 years of earnings. If you work fewer than 35 years, zeros are included in the calculation, which can significantly reduce your benefit. Continuing to work longer, especially in higher-paying years, can replace those zeros, increasing your average earnings and boosting your benefits.
3. Maximize Earnings Subject to Social Security Tax
In 2025, the maximum taxable earnings for Social Security is $176,100. Contributing the maximum amount over your career can substantially increase your average lifetime earnings, leading to higher benefits. Consistently maximizing this amount is a powerful way to boost your retirement income.
4. Utilize a “Bridge” Strategy with Retirement Savings
If you have retirement savings like a 401(k) or IRA, consider using these funds to delay claiming Social Security. By bridging the gap between early retirement and age 70, you can allow your Social Security benefits to grow, potentially increasing your monthly payments by up to 77% compared to claiming at 62.
5. Review and Correct Your Earnings Record
It’s essential to regularly review your Social Security earnings record for accuracy. Errors or omissions can lead to significantly lower benefit payments. You can access your record through your My Social Security account and request corrections if needed.
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FAQs on Boost Your Social Security
Q: What is the Full Retirement Age (FRA)?
A: The FRA varies depending on your birth year, but for most people retiring today, it is between 66 and 67.
Q: How much can I increase my Social Security by delaying benefits?
A: You can increase your benefit by approximately 8% per year for each year you delay past your FRA until age 70.
Q: Can I work while receiving Social Security benefits?
A: Yes, but your benefits may be temporarily reduced if you have not reached your FRA.
