As of 2025, Americans who delay retirement until age 70 can receive up to $5,108 per month in Social Security benefits. This increase has caught the attention of many nearing retirement—and for good reason. If you’re planning your financial future, knowing how to qualify for this maximum payment is key. Let’s cut into what Social Security is, how it works, and what steps you can take to get the most out of your retirement benefits.
Overview
Social Security is a government program designed to support retirees, people with disabilities, and others who can no longer earn a full income. Most workers pay into Social Security throughout their careers, and in return, they receive monthly payments once they hit retirement age or face a qualifying disability.
For retirees, benefits can start as early as age 62, but claiming early means reduced monthly payments. Waiting until full retirement age (FRA)—67 for those born in 1960 or later—gives you your full benefit. However, if you delay benefits until age 70, you can significantly boost your monthly payment thanks to delayed retirement credits.
Maximum
So how do you get that top-tier $5,108 monthly benefit? It’s not automatic—here’s what you need:
- 35 years of work history
- Maximum taxable income every year
- Delay your claim until age 70
To be clear, very few people hit the max. You’d need to earn the maximum taxable amount ($176,100 in 2025) every year for 35 years straight. Most people don’t reach that level, but it’s a good benchmark if you’re aiming high.
Earnings
Social Security looks at your highest-earning 35 years when calculating your benefit. If you worked fewer than 35 years, the SSA fills in the missing years with zeros—so working longer, even part-time, can actually help raise your benefit.
Each year, there’s a cap on how much income is taxed for Social Security. In 2025, that cap is $176,100. If you earn more than that, it doesn’t increase your benefit further, but earning below it could lower your future payments.
Age
Full retirement age is 67 if you were born in 1960 or later. At that point, you can claim 100% of your benefits. But if you delay until age 70, your monthly check grows by about 8% per year after FRA—up to a 24% boost.
That’s how someone whose FRA benefit might be $4,100 ends up with $5,108 at age 70. Every year you wait past 67 makes a noticeable difference.
Taxes
Keep in mind, Social Security benefits may be taxed if you have other income, like from a pension or investments. Up to 85% of your benefit could be taxable depending on your total income and filing status. So, if you’re planning to live on a mix of Social Security and other income, factor taxes into your budget.
Maximize
Here are some tips to get the most from your Social Security benefits:
1. Use SSA Tools Early
Go to SSA.gov and try the Retirement Estimator. It’ll show you what to expect based on your earnings history.
2. Think About Spousal Benefits
If you’re married, you might be able to claim benefits on your spouse’s record—even if you never worked. Spousal benefits can be up to 50% of your partner’s benefit.
3. Delay if Possible
If you’re healthy and can afford to wait, delaying to age 70 pays off with higher monthly checks. But if you need the income sooner, claiming early might still be the right choice for you.
4. Keep Working
Still working in your 60s? Great. If those years are higher income years, they can replace lower-earning years in your benefit calculation and raise your average.
5. Plan for Inflation
Social Security includes Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLAs), but they’re not always enough to match rising costs. Building a cushion with savings can help.
Myths
Let’s clear up a few common myths:
Myth 1
While the program faces funding challenges, it isn’t disappearing anytime soon. Changes may be needed, but benefits will likely continue in some form.
Myth 2
You can. Before FRA, earnings can temporarily reduce your benefits, but once you hit 67, you can earn as much as you want without penalty.
Myth 3
High earners can get higher benefits—as much as $5,108 per month. It’s based on how much you earn and how long you work.
Social Security is a critical part of retirement planning. Whether you’re years away or ready to file, knowing how the system works helps you make smart decisions. And if you’re aiming for that $5,108 monthly check, start planning early, earn well, and delay as long as you can.
FAQs
What is the max Social Security at 70 in 2025?
$5,108 per month for those who delay benefits to age 70.
How do I qualify for the $5,108 benefit?
Work 35 years earning max taxable income each year.
When is full retirement age for Social Security?
It’s age 67 for anyone born in 1960 or later.
Can I still work while getting benefits?
Yes, especially after your full retirement age.
Is Social Security income taxable?
Yes, depending on your total income and filing status.
