$4,018, $2,831, or $5,108? Find Out Your 2025 Social Security Benefits

If you’re planning to retire in 2025 or are already receiving Social Security, you might be wondering how much money you’ll actually get each month. The answer depends on when you start collecting benefits and how much you’ve earned over your career.

Here’s a simple breakdown of the maximum Social Security checks in 2025:

• If you retire at 62, the maximum monthly benefit is $2,831
• If you retire at full retirement age (66 or 67, depending on your birth year), the maximum monthly benefit is $4,018
• If you delay retirement until 70, the maximum monthly benefit is $5,108

The longer you wait to claim Social Security (up to age 70), the higher your monthly check will be due to delayed retirement credits.

Who Qualifies for Social Security in 2025?

To receive Social Security benefits, you must have worked and paid into the system long enough. Here’s what that means:

• You need at least 40 work credits, which typically takes 10 years of work
• In 2025, you earn one credit for every $1,810 in wages, with a maximum of four credits per year
• The amount you receive depends on your lifetime earnings and the age you start collecting

If you’re unsure about how much you’ll get, you can check your estimated benefits by logging into your my Social Security account on the Social Security Administration website.

When Will You Get Paid?

Social Security checks are sent out based on your birth date:

• If your birthday falls between the 1st and 10th, you’ll be paid on the second Wednesday of the month
• If your birthday falls between the 11th and 20th, you’ll be paid on the third Wednesday of the month
• If your birthday falls between the 21st and 31st, you’ll be paid on the fourth Wednesday of the month

For example, in February 2025, payments will go out on the 12th, 19th, and 26th, depending on your birth date.

What You Should Do Next

• Know your full retirement age – If you claim benefits early, your check will be smaller. If you wait until 70, you’ll get the highest amount possible.
• Check your work credits – Make sure you’ve worked enough years to qualify for benefits.
• Plan for your retirement – The Social Security Administration updates benefits regularly, so keep an eye out for any changes.

Whether you’re about to retire or are already receiving Social Security, knowing your benefit amount and payment schedule is essential. If you haven’t already, log into your my Social Security account to see exactly how much you’ll get and when.