Most retirees know they can’t rely on Social Security alone to cover their expenses, but many don’t realize how much control they actually have over the size of their benefit.

As of May 2025, the average monthly Social Security check for retired workers is $2,002.39—just over $24,000 per year.

That’s not enough to live comfortably, especially with the rising cost of food, housing, and healthcare.

Fortunately, there are clear, proven strategies that can help you increase that monthly check and strengthen your long-term financial security.



Your Social Security benefit is based on your highest 35 years of earnings, so boosting your income during your career can make a meaningful difference.

In 2025, only earnings up to $176,100 are counted toward your benefit, but most workers fall well below that cap.

Even a modest raise or side income can raise your average earnings and result in a higher check. For example, increasing your salary from $70,000 to $75,000 or picking up a few thousand dollars in extra freelance work can pay off in retirement.


If you don’t have 35 full years of work history, Social Security fills in the missing years with zeros, which pulls down your benefit.

That’s why it’s important to stay in the workforce for at least 35 years if possible. And if you’re earning more now than you did in the past, continuing to work can actually replace lower-earning years with higher ones.

This recalculation can increase your monthly payout and may be worth sticking it out a few extra years near the end of your career.



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Delaying your claim past your full retirement age is one of the most powerful ways to grow your benefit. For those born in 1960 or later, full retirement age is 67—but if you wait until age 70, your benefit will grow by 8% for each year you delay.

It’s a smart move for those in good health who can cover expenses from savings or other income sources during those extra years.

Social Security remains one of the only sources of income in retirement that is guaranteed and inflation-adjusted for life.



Also read: Changes to Social Security payments are coming—here’s what to expect

With healthcare and housing costs continuing to climb, every extra dollar you can secure from Social Security is money you won’t need to withdraw from your savings.

Taking time to maximize your benefit now could lead to thousands of dollars more per year in retirement. The strategies are simple, the math is sound—and the payoff could last the rest of your life.

Read next: Avoid these common Social Security mistakes—and make the most of your retirement benefits
What steps are you taking to boost your Social Security benefit? Have you already delayed your claim, or are you planning to work longer to increase your payout? Drop your thoughts, questions, or tips in the comments—we’d love to hear how you're planning for a stronger retirement.