As you grow older, Social Security becomes a big part of your income in retirement. If you’re planning to retire around age 70 in 2025, you may be wondering, “How much money will I get each month?” The answer depends on different factors like your work history, how much you earned, and when you started claiming Social Security. Let’s break it down in simple terms.
Why Age 70 Matters in Social Security
Most people can start taking Social Security at age 62, but waiting until age 70 gives you the highest monthly payment. This is because the longer you wait, the more your benefits grow. For every year you delay after your full retirement age (usually 66 or 67), your check grows by about 8% each year.
So if you wait until 70, you’re getting the biggest check possible. That’s why many people who can afford to wait until 70 choose to do so.
Average Social Security Check at Age 70 in 2025
In 2025, the average monthly Social Security check for someone claiming at age 70 is expected to be around $2,860. This is higher than the average benefit at age 62 or 67 because of the delayed retirement credits.
However, not everyone will get this exact amount. Some may receive more, while others may get less. The actual amount depends on how much you earned while working and how many years you paid Social Security taxes.
Factors That Affect Your Social Security Payment
Several things can affect the size of your check:
- Work history: The more years you work and pay into Social Security, the better.
- Earnings: Higher lifetime earnings mean higher benefits.
- Inflation: Each year, Social Security payments are adjusted based on the cost of living. This is called a COLA (Cost-of-Living Adjustment). In 2025, the COLA is expected to be around 2.6%, which means payments could increase a bit.
- Claiming age: Waiting until age 70 gives you the biggest monthly check.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Retirement Age (FRA) | For most, FRA is between age 66 and 67, depending on birth year. |
| Delaying Benefits Until Age 70 | Boosts your benefit by 8% each year after FRA, up to age 70. |
| Maximum Monthly Benefit at Age 70 (2025) | Up to $4,873 for those with high lifetime earnings. |
| Average Monthly Benefit at Age 70 | Around $2,038–$3,800, depending on your work history and earnings. |
| Benefit Calculation Factors | Based on highest 35 years of earnings and age when you claim. |
| When to Apply for Benefits | You can apply up to 4 months before your 70th birthday. |
| How to Apply | Online via SSA.gov, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. |
| Tax Considerations | Your benefits may be taxed if your total income crosses certain limits. |
| Spousal/Social Security Benefits at 70 | Spouses may also receive increased benefits if delayed until 70. |
| Medicare Enrollment Tip | Sign up for Medicare at 65 to avoid penalties—Social Security is separate. |
Should You Wait Until 70 to Claim?
This depends on your health, savings, and life plans. If you are healthy and can afford to delay your payments, waiting until 70 could be a smart move. You’ll get a much higher monthly income for life. But if you need the money earlier or have health concerns, claiming sooner might be better for you.
How to Check Your Estimated Benefit
The Social Security Administration (SSA) makes it easy to check your benefit estimate. You can create a “my Social Security” account on their website and see how much you’re likely to receive at different ages. This helps you plan better for retirement.
Understanding how much Social Security you can get at age 70 helps you plan your future better. In 2025, the average check at that age is expected to be about $2,860 per month, thanks to delayed retirement bonuses. While that amount may vary depending on your personal work history and earnings, waiting until 70 can be a smart move if your goal is to receive the highest monthly benefit.
Planning early, checking your earnings record, and making informed choices about when to claim can all help ensure you get the most out of Social Security.
What is the maximum Social Security benefit at age 70 in 2025?
The maximum monthly benefit for those who retire at age 70 in 2025 is approximately $4,873.
How does delaying retirement affect my benefit?
For each year you delay taking Social Security after your full retirement age, your benefits increase by about 8%, up to age 70.
Can I still get Medicare at 65 if I delay Social Security?
Yes, Medicare eligibility starts at 65. You can enroll in Medicare even if you wait until 70 to claim Social Security.
Is it better to claim at 70 than earlier?
If you live a long life, claiming at 70 gives you higher monthly payments for life, which may be better financially.
Are Social Security benefits taxed at age 70?
Yes, depending on your income. If your combined income is above a certain amount, up to 85% of your benefit could be taxed.
