Updated
Updated · The Motley Fool · Jul 7
SSA Shows Social Security Benefits Rise to $2,274.68 at 70 From $1,424.40 at 62
Updated
Updated · The Motley Fool · Jul 7

SSA Shows Social Security Benefits Rise to $2,274.68 at 70 From $1,424.40 at 62

1 articles · Updated · The Motley Fool · Jul 7

Summary

  • $2,274.68 was the average monthly Social Security benefit at age 70 in December 2025, versus $1,424.40 at age 62, according to newly released SSA data for ages 62 to 70.
  • That roughly $850 monthly gap reflects how claiming age changes payouts: workers born in 1960 or later have a full retirement age of 67, and claiming at 62 can cut benefits by up to 30%.
  • Delaying beyond full retirement age raises benefits instead, with retirees who wait until 70 able to increase payouts by 24%, helping explain averages of $2,016.48 at 67 and $2,096.95 at 69.
  • The agency said the figures come from its 2026 annual statistical supplement using December 2025 data, and the report is not yet complete and could be revised.
  • The release underscores that claiming later usually boosts monthly income, but the best timing still depends on each retiree's savings, health and near-term expenses.

Insights

Could delaying Social Security for a higher payment push you into a surprise tax bracket later in retirement?
With benefits facing a 24% cut by 2033, is delaying your claim for a bigger check still the smartest move?