If you’re thinking about retiring in 2025 and are turning 62, you might have heard that Social Security checks could reach up to $2,831 per month. That number can sound appealing, but is it realistic for you?
Here’s a breakdown of how Social Security works, what factors determine your benefit amount, and how you can maximize your retirement income.
The Reality of Social Security Checks at Age 62
While some lucky individuals might qualify for the maximum Social Security payment of $2,831 per month, the average 62-year-old retiree will receive much less. The average benefit at age 62 is closer to $1,298 per month. To get the maximum benefit, you need to meet specific eligibility requirements.
Who Qualifies for the Maximum Benefit?
To get the highest monthly benefit, you must have:
- Worked for at least 35 years.
- Earned at or near the maximum taxable wage during those years.
- Started claiming benefits at age 62, which results in a 30% reduction compared to waiting until your Full Retirement Age (FRA) of 67.
Very few people meet these criteria, so most will receive less than the maximum $2,831.
How Social Security Benefits Are Determined
There are three key factors that influence how much you’ll get from Social Security:
- Your 35 Highest-Earning Years: Social Security calculates your benefits based on your 35 highest-earning years. If you worked fewer than 35 years, those missing years count as $0, which lowers your average.
- Your Age When You Start Benefits: If you start benefits at age 62, you’ll only receive about 70% of the amount you would get at FRA. Waiting until you’re 70 could increase your monthly payment by up to 24%.
- Your Lifetime Earnings: Only those who earned at or above the maximum taxable income for 35 years qualify for the maximum monthly benefit.
Can You Really Get $2,831 a Month at 62?
It’s possible but very rare. To receive the maximum $2,831 per month at age 62, you need to have earned a high income for 35 years, meeting the maximum taxable wage each year. Even then, you would need to accept the 30% reduction for claiming early.
How Much Will You Actually Get?
Most people will receive far less than the maximum:
Average benefit at 62: $1,298
Full benefit at 67: Between $1,800–$2,000, depending on lifetime earnings
Maximum benefit at 67: $3,822
Maximum benefit at 70: $5,108
For a personalized estimate, visit the Social Security Administration’s website.
Should You Claim at 62?
Deciding when to start Social Security benefits is personal. Here are some things to consider:
Reasons to Claim Early:
You need income now.
You have health issues or a shorter life expectancy.
You want to start receiving payments right away.
Reasons to Wait:
You’re still working.
You have other sources of income (like a 401(k)).
You want higher lifetime benefits.
The Earnings Limit for 2025
If you decide to work while collecting Social Security before reaching FRA, there’s a limit to how much you can earn without losing part of your benefits. In 2025, this limit is $23,400.
If you earn more than this, $1 in benefits will be withheld for every $2 earned over the limit. Once you reach FRA, there’s no earnings limit, and you will receive your full benefit regardless of how much you earn.
Spousal Benefits: A Boost to Your Income
If you’re married, divorced, or widowed, you may qualify for spousal benefits, which can increase your monthly Social Security check:
Spousal benefits can be up to 50% of your spouse’s full benefit, depending on your own work history.
Divorced? If you were married for at least 10 years and haven’t remarried, you can still claim spousal benefits.
Widowed? You can receive survivor benefits, which may even be higher than your own benefit.
How to Estimate and Maximize Your Social Security Benefits
To ensure you’re getting the most out of Social Security, follow these steps:
- Open a “my Social Security” account: This will give you a personalized estimate and allow you to track your earnings record.
- Work for at least 35 years: The more years you work, the higher your average earnings, which will increase your benefit.
- Delay Benefits if Possible: Every year you wait (up to age 70) can increase your monthly benefit by about 8%.
- Coordinate with Your Spouse: Smart planning between you and your spouse can result in thousands of additional lifetime benefits.
- Avoid Working Too Much Before FRA: If you’re collecting early benefits and working, make sure you don’t exceed the earnings limit.
While $2,831 a month sounds like an ideal Social Security check, very few retirees will receive this amount. However, with proper planning—like working for at least 35 years, delaying your benefits, and coordinating with your spouse—you can still enjoy a comfortable retirement.
Remember, Social Security is just one part of your retirement strategy. Be sure to take the necessary steps to maximize your benefits and secure your financial future.
