When people in the United States start receiving Social Security retirement checks, the amount they get depends on several key factors. If you don’t plan carefully, your monthly payment might fall short—making it harder to cover your regular expenses in retirement.
But here’s the good news: there is one simple move that can increase your Social Security payment by up to 30%. While this option may not be possible for everyone, if it’s available to you, it’s worth considering.
How to Get 30% More from Social Security
The amount you get from Social Security each month is mainly influenced by the age at which you retire. If you claim benefits at the minimum age of 62, your monthly check will be reduced—up to 30% lower than it could be.
On the other hand, if you delay retirement until age 70, you can receive up to 30% more each month. For those who have had a high earning history and worked for at least 35 years, the maximum monthly benefit in 2025 is $5,180.
That’s a big difference, and it can make your retirement years much more comfortable.
Key Factors That Affect Your Social Security Payment
Let’s break down the main factors that decide how much you’ll receive from Social Security:
| Factor | Impact on Your Payment | Strategy to Maximize |
|---|---|---|
| Retirement Age | Early retirement (age 62) can reduce benefits by up to 30% | Delay benefits until age 70 if you can |
| Years Worked | SSA uses your top 35 earning years for calculation | Work for 35 years or more to increase average income |
| Earnings History | Higher lifetime earnings = higher monthly payments | Aim to boost your earnings during working years |
| Claiming Strategy | Timing and plan affect long-term income | Talk to a retirement advisor to plan ahead |
Can You Still Increase Your Retirement Payment?
Yes, you can increase your Social Security check—but it takes planning and patience. Here’s how:
- Work Longer: The Social Security Administration (SSA) calculates your benefit based on your 35 highest-earning years. If you’ve worked fewer than 35 years, those missing years count as $0, which lowers your average.
- Earn More: Higher earnings mean higher contributions to Social Security—and this directly leads to a larger benefit.
- Claim Later: Delaying retirement is the most powerful strategy. For every year you wait past full retirement age (67) up to age 70, your benefits increase.
This means that, even if you don’t have high earnings, delaying your claim can still give you significantly more money each month for life.