Social Security plays a big role in the lives of millions of Americans. Most people support the idea of keeping it strong and reliable. In fact, a recent survey showed that about 87% of Americans want the Social Security Administration (SSA) to stay a top priority. For many, this program is their main source of income during retirement.
If you are planning to retire soon or already receive benefits, you might be wondering how much you can get — and how to increase it. In 2025, there are smart ways to boost your monthly Social Security payments. One of the best ways is by simply waiting a few more years to claim your benefits.
Let’s break down how you can get up to 77% more each month and when your payments are due in May 2025.
May 2025 Social Security Payment Dates
The Social Security Administration has announced the payment dates for May 2025. If you are a retiree waiting for your next deposit, here is the schedule:
- If your birthday falls between the 1st and 10th, your payment will arrive on May 14
- If your birthday is from the 11th to the 20th, your payment will be made on May 21
- If your birthday is from the 21st to the 31st, you will get paid on May 28
However, if you have been getting Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) since before May 1997, your payment usually comes on the 3rd of each month. But since May 3rd falls on a Saturday in 2025, payments for this group will be made on May 2, which is the nearest business day (Friday).
How Much Can You Get from Social Security in 2025?
Thanks to the COLA (Cost of Living Adjustment) in 2025, the maximum monthly benefit has gone up to $5,108. But getting that full amount isn’t easy. You must:
- Wait until age 70 to retire
- Earn close to the maximum taxable income for at least 35 years
- Earn at least 40 work credits, which is roughly 10 years of work
If you retire earlier, your benefits will be less. Here’s a comparison based on the age you choose to retire:
- At 62 years old (the earliest possible age): You get $2,831/month
- At 67 years old (full retirement age): You get $4,018/month
- At 70 years old: You get the maximum of $5,108/month
Example: How Waiting Can Boost Your Benefit
Let’s say there’s a man named John, who can retire at 62 and get $1,000/month. If he waits until 67, he gets around $1,430/month, which is 43% more. If he waits until 70, his monthly check becomes $1,760, which is 76% more than retiring at 62.
This increase is due to delayed retirement credits. The SSA adds about 8% extra per year to your benefit for each year you wait after age 67, up to age 70.
After 70, however, waiting longer doesn’t give you any more credit. So 70 is the best age to retire if you want the highest possible monthly check.
Why Delaying Retirement Is Worth It
Waiting until 70 to claim your benefits can lead to a much higher income for the rest of your life. While retiring early might seem tempting, especially if you want to stop working sooner, it comes with a long-term cost. Smaller payments for life could add up to a big difference over the years.
If you’re healthy and expect to live a longer life, delaying your retirement could be a smart move. It not only increases your monthly income but also helps you manage rising living costs in your later years.
