Written by: 

Keyla Robles

Third Year Law Clerk Penn State Law

Heather C. Kirson

Florida Bar Board Certified Elder Law Attorney

Maximize Your Social Security Benefits 

Social Security has been central to retirement planning for generations, and due to a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment taking effect in January of 2025, millions of retirees relying on Social Security will benefit from an increase in their monthly Social Security. Whether you are retired or getting ready to retire, here’s what you need to know about your Social Security benefits.

What is Maximum Benefit Social Security and How Can You Qualify

The maximum Social Security benefit is the highest monthly payment a retiree can receive from the Social Security Administration. For workers retiring at full retirement age in 2025, this amount is $4,018 per month, up from $3,822 in 2024, due to the 2025 adjustment. However, this maximum is attainable by only a small group of individuals who meet specific criteria. The national average increase will be approximately $50 per month.

To qualify for maximum Social Security retirement benefits, you need to:

• Earn the maximum taxable income every year for 35 years straight. In 2025, that will be a salary of $176,100 or more. This amount is limited to wages subject to federal payroll taxes.
• Retire at full retirement age, which is 66 if you were born between 1943 and 1954 or 67 if you were born in 1960 or later.

Workers who delay claiming benefits until age 70 can earn even more through delayed retirement credits, which boost benefits by 8% per year past full retirement age even if they have not reached maximum taxable income. On the other hand, claiming retirement benefits at the earliest possible age of 62 results in permanently reduced benefits. This reduction in benefits and its impact on your family and finances is something to keep in mind if you plan on retiring early.

Why You Should Plan Ahead

Planning ahead for Social Security is one of the most important financial moves you can make as you approach retirement. Due to a retiree’s significant reliance on Social Security benefits, understanding how to maximize your Social Security can make a difference in your quality of life.

Contact Us

If you’re navigating complex Social Security decisions or facing challenges with retirement planning, it’s essential to have the right support. At the Elder Law Center of Kirson & Fuller we can provide assistance with Medicaid and estate planning, asset protection, and specialized long-term care strategies. Our experienced team can help ensure your Social Security benefits align with your broader retirement and estate goals. Contact us today at 407-422-3017 or at kirsonfuller.com.