If you’re in your 70s—or heading there soon—you’ve probably thought a lot about what Social Security actually provides.

After decades of work and paying into the system, those monthly checks are more than just money; they represent security, planning, and peace of mind.

But how much can the average 72-year-old expect to receive in 2025?


And more importantly, how far does that money really go when stacked against today’s costs?

Let’s look at the numbers, the factors that shape them, and some strategies to help make the most of your benefits.


The average check at 72

As of July 2025, the average monthly Social Security retirement benefit is $2,007—or about $24,000 a year.

That figure covers everyone, from those who claimed at 62 to those who waited until 70 or later.

For retirees who delayed claiming, benefits are often higher, with checks landing closer to $2,500–$3,000 depending on lifetime earnings.

Delayed retirement credits can boost payments by as much as 32% compared with claiming at full retirement age.

That means some 72-year-olds are collecting significantly above the national average.


Also read: Boost your Social Security income in retirement with these three smart strategies

Why benefits vary so much

Social Security is not one-size-fits-all. Several factors influence the monthly amount:

• When you claim: Early claiming brings smaller checks for life, while delaying up to age 70 means larger ones.
• Earnings record: Benefits are based on your highest 35 years of income. Lower wages or gaps in work can reduce your benefit.
• Gender differences: Women, on average, receive smaller benefits due to lower lifetime earnings and caregiving breaks.

The COLA question

Every year, benefits rise through a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA).

But the formula is based on the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W)—a measure that doesn’t always match the real spending of retirees.

Older Americans tend to spend more on health care and housing, which have risen faster than general inflation.

Some experts advocate for the Consumer Price Index for the Elderly (CPI-E) instead, arguing it would better reflect senior expenses.

Until then, annual increases may not fully keep pace with rising costs.


Also read: Social Security update: Early forecasts suggest a possible benefit increase in 2026

Can you rely on Social Security alone?

The short answer: not comfortably.

At $2,007 a month—or even $2,500 with delayed claiming—Social Security was never designed to fully replace income.

The program’s goal is to cover about 40% of pre-retirement earnings.

To maintain your standard of living, most retirees need savings, pensions, or part-time income alongside Social Security.

Also read: Big Social Security changes are coming in 2026—here’s what to know now

Ways to maximize your benefits

While Social Security has limits, smart planning can stretch your check further:

1. Delay if possible: Waiting past full retirement age boosts your payment by about 8% each year until 70.
2. Coordinate with a spouse: Spousal and survivor benefits can increase what your household receives.
3. Work a bit longer: Additional years of income can replace lower-earning years in your record.
4. Manage taxes: Up to 85% of your benefit may be taxable depending on other income. Strategic withdrawals can help.
5. Check eligibility for extras: Divorced or widowed retirees, or those with dependents, may qualify for additional benefits.

Also read: Seniors in these states could see big Social Security cuts—are you affected?

The so-called “bonus”

You may see references to a $23,760 Social Security “bonus.”

There isn’t a special payment—this figure refers to how much extra retirees can gain annually by maximizing strategies like delayed claiming, spousal coordination, and taking advantage of every eligible credit.

Also read: Bigger benefits, smaller payoff? Medicare costs may cut into your next Social Security raise

The bottom line

Social Security is an essential foundation for retirement, but it’s not the entire picture.

While the average check at 72 in 2025 provides meaningful support, it often falls short of covering all expenses.

The key is planning ahead, supplementing benefits, and making informed decisions about when and how to claim.

Read next: Where does Social Security stretch the furthest? A new report ranks the best—and worst—cities for retirees


Are you already receiving Social Security? Did you claim early or wait until 70? How does your check compare with the average, and what strategies have you used to make your money go further?

Share your experiences with The GrayVine community so we can learn from one another!