Social Security remains a critical source of income for millions of retired Americans, and in 2025, those monthly checks are seeing a slight boost thanks to a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). Whether you’re nearing retirement or already receiving benefits, it’s helpful to understand how your age affects your monthly payout.
Below, we break down what the average retired worker can expect from Social Security in 2025, depending on the age at which they begin claiming benefits.
🧾 2025 Social Security COLA: What’s New This Year?
Each year, the Social Security Administration (SSA) adjusts monthly payments to keep up with inflation. For 2025, the cost-of-living adjustment is estimated at 2.6% (official rate may vary slightly), which helps maintain purchasing power for retirees.
Now, let’s look at how that translates into actual monthly benefit amounts for retired workers by age.
đź“Š Average Social Security Benefits by Age in 2025
Note: These are average figures based on national SSA data. Your actual benefit may be higher or lower depending on your earnings history and when you start claiming.
🔹 Age 62 (Earliest Eligibility Age)
- Estimated Average Benefit: $1,285/month
- Details: Claiming at age 62 means locking in a reduced benefit—around 70% to 75% of your full amount. It’s the earliest you can start receiving retirement benefits, but it comes with a permanent reduction.
🔹 Age 65
- Estimated Average Benefit: $1,622/month
- Details: Many retirees choose to start collecting benefits at 65, often in coordination with Medicare eligibility. However, unless your full retirement age (FRA) is 65, your benefit may still be slightly reduced.
🔹 Age 66
- Estimated Average Benefit: $1,840/month
- Details: If your FRA is 66 (for those born between 1943 and 1954), claiming now gives you your full retirement benefit. This age is a common “sweet spot” for balancing monthly income with lifetime value.
🔹 Age 67 (Full Retirement Age for Most Current Workers)
Estimated Average Benefit: $1,911/month
- Details: For people born in 1960 or later, full retirement age is 67. Waiting until this age allows you to receive your full, unreduced benefit based on your earnings record.
🔹 Age 70 (Maximum Benefit Age)
Estimated Average Benefit: $2,355/month
- Details: By delaying your claim until age 70, you receive delayed retirement credits—boosting your monthly benefit by up to 8% per year after FRA. For those who can wait, this is the highest monthly benefit available.
đź“Ś Why Your Age Matters
The SSA uses your 35 highest-earning years and the age you begin claiming to calculate your benefit. The longer you wait (up to age 70), the more you’ll receive monthly—but fewer total checks over your lifetime.
Claiming early = more years of benefits, but smaller checks
Claiming later = fewer years of benefits, but larger checks
âś… Other Key Factors That Affect Your Benefit
- Lifetime earnings: The higher your income, the higher your benefit.
- Work history: 35 years is the magic number. Fewer than that? You’ll get zeros in your average.
- Spousal benefits: You may be eligible to receive up to 50% of your spouse’s benefit, even if you never worked.
- Taxes: Depending on your total income, your Social Security benefits may be taxable.
📅 Planning for Retirement in 2025? Here’s What You Should Do
- Check your Social Security Statement at ssa.gov for personalized estimates.
- Decide when to claim based on your financial needs, health, and expected lifespan.
- Consider working longer to boost your benefit if you can.
- Work with a financial advisor to explore strategies that maximize your retirement income.
🧓 Final Thoughts
In 2025, the average Social Security benefit continues to provide vital support for millions of retirees. Whether you’re 62 and ready to retire or holding out until 70 for a larger check, knowing what to expect at each age can help you plan with confidence.
Remember: Social Security isn’t one-size-fits-all. The “best” time to claim depends on your unique situation—your health, financial goals, and how long you expect to live. But no matter when you decide to file, understanding your options puts you in a better position to make the most of your retirement years.