Social Security Retirement Benefits in 2025
In 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) offers three primary retirement benefit amounts based on the age at which you begin receiving benefits:
- $2,831 per month – If you begin receiving benefits at age 62, the earliest eligibility age.
- $4,018 per month – If you begin receiving benefits at your Full Retirement Age (FRA), which is 67 for individuals born in 1960 or later.
- $5,108 per month – If you delay receiving benefits until age 70, the maximum benefit age.
2025 Payment Schedule
Social Security retirement benefits are paid on a set schedule determined by your birth date:
- 1st – 10th of the month: Payments are made on the 2nd Wednesday.
- 11th – 20th of the month: Payments are made on the 3rd Wednesday.
- 21st – 31st of the month: Payments are made on the 4th Wednesday.
For example, in April 2025:
- April 9: Payments for those born between the 1st and 10th.
- April 16: Payments for those born between the 11th and 20th.
- April 23: Payments for those born between the 21st and 31st.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for Social Security retirement benefits, you must:
- Have earned 40 work credits, which typically equates to about 10 years of work.
- Be at least 62 years old.
- Be a U.S. citizen or a qualified noncitizen.
- Have worked in jobs covered by Social Security.
Factors Affecting Your Benefit Amount
Your monthly benefit amount can be influenced by several factors:
- Average Indexed Monthly Earnings (AIME): This is calculated based on your highest-earning 35 years.
- Age at Retirement: Retiring earlier than your FRA results in a reduced benefit, while delaying benefits increases the amount.
- Lifetime Earnings: Higher lifetime earnings lead to a higher benefit.
- Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLAs): Annual adjustments to benefits based on inflation.
How to Apply
You can apply for Social Security retirement benefits:
- Online: Visit the SSA website.
- By Phone: Call 1-800-772-1213.
- In Person: Visit your local Social Security office.
It’s advisable to apply 3 months before you want your benefits to start.
Summary
In 2025, Social Security retirement benefits range from $2,831 to $5,108 per month, depending on your age at retirement. Payments are made on a set schedule based on your birth date, with adjustments for weekends and holidays. Eligibility requires 40 work credits, and your benefit amount is influenced by your earnings history and the age at which you begin receiving benefits. To apply, you can use the SSA’s online services, call, or visit a local office.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I receive Social Security benefits if I continue working?
Yes, you can receive benefits while working. However, if you’re under full retirement age, earning above a certain threshold may temporarily reduce your benefits. Once you reach full retirement age, your earnings will not affect your benefit amount.
Q2: Will my Social Security benefits be taxed?
Depending on your total income, your benefits may be subject to federal income tax. If your combined income exceeds certain thresholds, up to 85% of your benefits may be taxable.
Q3: What happens if I start receiving benefits before my full retirement age?
Starting benefits before your full retirement age results in a permanent reduction in your monthly benefit amount. The reduction is based on the number of months you receive benefits before reaching full retirement age.
Q4: Can I change my mind after starting Social Security benefits?
Yes, you can change your mind within 12 of starting benefits. If you repay all the benefits received, you can withdraw your application and restart benefits later at a higher amount.
Q5: How can I estimate my Social Security benefits?
You can use the SSA’s online tools to estimate your benefits based on your earnings history.