Big Boost for Retirees Over 67: Your Social Security Check is About to Grow in 2025!
Planning for retirement can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re uncertain about having a steady income. Most retirees rely on Social Security benefits and savings, but these funds can sometimes feel inadequate, especially if unexpected expenses arise.
After a lifetime of hard work, it’s natural to want a retirement that’s financially comfortable and stress-free.
While many people know the basics of retirement planning—save early, downsize, stick to a budget, and prioritize preventive healthcare—there’s a lesser-known strategy that can significantly boost your Social Security benefits. This strategy could make a big difference in how much you receive each month.
Understanding How Social Security Works?
To qualify for Social Security benefits, most people know they need to work for at least 10 years in a job that pays taxable income. Ideally, your benefits are calculated based on 35 years of earnings, so having any “zero-income” years in that calculation could lower your monthly checks.
The full Retirement Age (FRA) is 67 for anyone born in 1960 or later. At this age, you can claim your full Social Security benefits. However, many retirees don’t receive the maximum benefit amount due to a variety of factors, such as earning below the maximum taxable income or gaps in their work history.
Here’s a comparison: in 2024, the maximum monthly Social Security benefit at FRA was $3,822. Meanwhile, the average recipient received only $1,976 per month. This stark difference highlights how many retirees face financial challenges because their benefits aren’t enough to cover their expenses.
How to Increase Your Social Security Benefits?
The simplest way to boost your monthly benefits is to delay claiming them until age 70. By doing this, your monthly payments will increase by about two-thirds of 1% for every month you delay after reaching FRA. This adds up to an annual increase of 8%.
For example, if your FRA is 66 years and 10 months, waiting until age 70 to claim benefits could raise your monthly payments by 25.33%. If your benefit is $4,018 at FRA, delaying until 70 could increase your payment to $5,036 per month.
Who Can Benefit the Most From Delaying?
This strategy works best for those who can afford to wait to claim benefits. High earners or individuals with substantial savings are more likely to benefit since they can cover their living expenses during the delay. Additionally, some people might transition to part-time work or consulting roles to bridge the gap.
For others, delaying might be more challenging due to financial constraints. However, even delaying your claim by one or two years can still result in a noticeable boost to your benefits.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning for retirement, consider waiting as long as possible to claim your Social Security benefits. Delaying not only increases your monthly income but also provides a greater financial cushion for the years ahead. It’s a smart move, especially for those who want to make the most of their retirement savings and ensure a more comfortable future.
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