DDN – In 2025, the average Social Security payout for a retired worker at age 65 is roughly $1,545 per month, accounting for 86.7% of the total retirement benefit, which is around $1,784.

The amount you receive is mostly determined by when you choose to claim your benefits, with earlier retirement resulting in lower payouts and later retirement resulting in larger monthly checks.

For individuals looking to maximize their Social Security benefits, time is important. If you claim benefits as early as age 62, your monthly payout will be lowered by 30%, to around $1,247 from the full benefit.

Waiting until your full retirement age (FRA), which is 67 for individuals born after 1960, assures you receive the entire amount of your due benefit. However, deferring until age 70 can increase your payments to 124% of the whole amount, or nearly $2,210 per month.

The Social Security Administration gives thorough information about how payouts adjust month by month as you reach your FRA. For example, at 65, your benefit increases significantly with each month you wait.

At 65 and 6 months, you would receive $1,604, and at 65 and 11 months, your payment would increase to approximately $1,654. This modest growth incentivizes patience, offering a compelling rationale for deferring benefits whenever possible.

Average Social Security Payouts at Age 65 Were Published

Tom Martin, a financial counselor who specializes in retirement planning, underlines the long-term consequences of waiting. “Each year you delay claiming Social Security after your FRA adds about 8% to your benefit,” he tells me. “That can make a huge difference, especially if you anticipate a long retirement.”

Your financial demands and health are also important considerations. While waiting until 70 results in the highest monthly payout, it is not always practical for everyone. “The key is to align your claiming strategy with your overall financial situation and lifestyle,” Martin explains. “If you need the income earlier or have health concerns, it might make sense to claim earlier.”

For many Americans, Social Security remains an important source of retirement income. Knowing how your claiming age influences your monthly check will allow you to make an informed selection.

Whether you choose to claim at 62, 65, or later, knowing the figures ensures you’re ready to face this significant milestone. Remember, the difference in waiting might mean hundreds extra in your pocket each month–money that could go a long way toward funding your retirement goals.