Maximize My Social Security: What should you be doing in 2025?
Social Security may not cover all your retirement needs—but with the right strategies, you can significantly increase your monthly payout. As of June 2025, the full retirement age is higher, and changes to the program are possible within the next decade. Here’s how to make the most of your benefit.
Work at least 35 years
Social Security calculates your benefit based on your 35 highest-earning years. If you worked fewer years, the IRS will average in zeros—cutting your benefit. Working longer or increasing income during your later career can help replace lower-earning years.
Know your full retirement age (FRA)
If you were born in 1960 or later, your FRA is 67. Claiming earlier—at 62—results in a 30% permanent reduction in monthly payments. Waiting until FRA or beyond allows you to collect more each month, for life.
Delay claiming to age 70
Waiting to claim until age 70 earns you delayed retirement credits. These grow your monthly benefit by up to 8% per year after FRA. In 2025, the maximum monthly benefit is $5,108. Only those who delay claiming and had high lifetime earnings qualify for that amount.
Use spousal and survivor strategies
If you’re married, divorced, or widowed, don’t overlook:
- Spousal benefits: Up to 50% of your spouse’s benefit at FRA
- Divorced spouse benefits: Available if you were married 10+ years and are now single
- Survivor benefits: Widows and widowers may receive a deceased spouse’s full benefit
These can supplement or replace your personal benefit, depending on the situation.
Consider “file and suspend” or restart options
Some filers benefit from claiming at FRA, suspending benefits, and restarting at age 70 to maximize delayed credits. This works well when you need flexibility or want to increase survivor benefits for your spouse.
Split strategies for couples
One spouse can claim early, providing income, while the other delays to age 70 to build a higher lifetime and survivor benefit. This “split strategy” can optimize household income.
Check your earnings record
Review your Social Security statement annually. Errors in your earnings history can significantly reduce your benefit if not corrected. Create or log into your mySocialSecurity account at SSA.gov to check it.
Talk to an expert
Social Security rules are complex—and mistakes are often irreversible. Consult a Registered Social Security Analyst (RSSA) or trusted financial advisor before filing, especially if you’re married or divorced, have dependents, or expect a long retirement.
Why this matters in 2025
- FRA is now 67, and Congress is debating proposals to raise it again.
- The trust fund is projected to be depleted by 2034, which could trigger a 20% benefit cut.
- Maximizing your benefit today could protect you from future shortfalls or policy changes.
Key takeaways
- Aim to work 35 years at strong earnings levels
- Delay claiming benefits to age 70 if possible
- Use spousal and survivor benefit strategies
- Review your Social Security earnings history annually
- Seek expert advice before making your claim