How much does the average Social Security recipient receive?
James Craig
Published Apr 10, 2026
The average person collecting Social Security is pocketing $1,553.68 per month in 2021, according to the Social Security Administration (SSA). That may or may not sound like a lot. Social Security income depends on a lot of things, so you could be in store for a much bigger or smaller payday when you retire.
Can I find out how much Social Security I will get?
The quickest and easiest is to use AARP’s Social Security Benefits Calculator or check your online My Social Security account. The latter draws on your earnings record on file with the Social Security Administration; for the AARP calculator, you’ll need to provide your average annual income.
Most people receive between $800 to $1,900 per month in benefits. However, about 2.5 million Americans collect over $2,600 per month, thanks to Social Security maximizing strategies.
What’s the maximum amount you can get from social security each year?
Under current law this means that as soon as you turn 62 the bend points for your benefits will be set in stone. The maximum Social Security benefit in 2018 is $2,788. To collect this you would have to have 35 eligible years of work earning the taxable maximum.
How much does social security pay at age 65?
Social Security may provide $33,773. If you start collecting your benefits at age 65 you could receive approximately $33,773 per year or $2,814 per month. This is 44.7% of your final year’s income …
How old do you have to be to get Social Security benefits?
However, if you enter a date before you are eligible for benefits, we will assume you want to start receiving benefits at the earliest possible age (age 62). Note that using this option gives only one benefit estimate.
How does the Social Security quick calculator work?
Social Security Quick Calculator. Benefit estimates depend on your date of birth and on your earnings history. For security, the “Quick Calculator” does not access your earnings record; instead, it will estimate your earnings based on information you provide.
