Richard Stephen/Getty Images
Commitment to our readers
The GOBankingRates editorial team is committed to providing you with unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methods to evaluate financial products and services – our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our review methodology for products and services.
20 years
help you get rich
trusted by
millions of readers
If you’re thinking of applying for Social Security benefits soon, here’s what you need to know in order to receive the maximum benefit, which is $5,181.
However, you can earn that amount only if you are 70 years of age or older. If you are 62 and retiring, your benefit will be $2,969. Beyond age 70, here’s how you can qualify for that maximum benefit.
Maintain coordination with your spouse
Before applying, make sure you talk to your spouse about their retirement plan and coordinate it together to get the largest possible benefit for both of you. Travis Hoechlin, CEO and Co-Founder Riseup MediaSaid high net worth couples could lose hundreds of thousands of dollars through uncoordinated filing dates.
“Generational wealth is lost because of bad timing,” Hoechlin said. “The lower-earning spouse needs to file early. This is the perfect step that gives the primary earner a chance to get their record on top.”
Maximize Contribution and Earnings
Melanie Musson, a finance expert clearsurance.comThat said, you have to maximize contributions for 35 years to get the biggest Social Security benefit. This means you have to either contribute or earn enough to qualify for the biggest benefit.
“In 2026, you’ll have to pay Social Security taxes on income up to $184,500. Thirty-five years ago, the taxable maximum was $53,400,” Musson explained. “So, if you have always paid tax on the maximum taxable amount for 35 years, you will get the maximum benefit based on your age.”