The Social Security Administration (SSA) implemented the announced benefit adjustments in May 2025, including a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) increase. These changes respond to inflation and seek to maintain the purchasing power of more than 70 million beneficiaries, according to official data from the agency itself.
Keep in mind that not all beneficiaries receive the same amounts, since each case is particular. It depends mainly on the 35 years with the highest salaries that are countable by the SSA, and on other factors such as the age at which the benefit is claimed.
The list of maximum Social Security amounts: how much will you receive in May?
The maximum monthly amounts for retirement in 2025 vary depending on the claim age, as we have said before:
- $2,831 at age 62 (30% reduction for early claim).
- $4,018 upon reaching full retirement age (FRA, ages 66 to 67).
- $5,108 at age 70 (all-time high with 8% annual post-FRA bonus).
It does not make sense to postpone payments beyond age 70, because from that age onwards, work credits do not continue to accumulate, and the amount does not increase. Social Security benefit averages show notable differences depending on the type of beneficiary. Individual retirees receive, on average, $1,980.86 per month, while retired couples average $3,089 per month.
In special cases, such as widows with two children, the average amount can reach $3,761. For their part, people with disabilities who have families usually receive around $2,826 per month. Despite these amounts, only 6% of Social Security beneficiaries reach the maximum monthly payment, according to data from the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Retirement requirements in the United States, easily explained
To access benefits in 2025, 40 work credits are required, equivalent to 10 years of work. One credit is earned for every $1,810 of income. The minimum age to claim benefits remains at 62, although claiming before Full Retirement Age (FRA) permanently reduces payments. The benefit calculation considers the 35 years of highest earnings, requiring high, taxable wages (up to $176,100) to maximize the benefit.
Disability benefits (SSDI) or survivors have additional criteria, such as certified work disability or relationship with deceased contributors. The SSA emphasizes that 62% of retirees depend on these payments to cover at least half of their expenses.
Delaying retirement until age 70 increases benefits by 76% compared to claiming at age 62. However, 43% of Americans choose to claim early, according to the Pew Research Center. Working while receiving pre-FRA benefits reduces payments if income exceeds $23,400 annually.
