When a person is in the last phase of his working life, planning for retirement becomes an extremely important decision. The most important role in this planning is played by the monthly pension or benefit amount given by the Social Security Administration (SSA) of America. Especially when you retire at the age of 67, it is very important to know how much you will receive on average at that time and how helpful this amount can be for your living.
Social Security and Retirement: The Foundation of a Social Security
The Social Security system in the US has remained a financial support for the elderly and retired citizens for decades. According to the data of January 2025, a total amount of $105 billion was being provided on a monthly basis to about 54 million retired citizens and their families through SSA. This amount is given to those people who spent many years of their lives working and now they are entitled to live a comfortable and respectable life.
To get this amount, a person has to work for the prescribed years in his career and pay Social Security tax. Several factors, such as years of work, wages earned, and retirement age, combine to determine how much monthly pension a person will receive upon retirement.
The Average Social Security Payment in May 2025
The average monthly payment that Social Security retirees received in May 2025 was $2,002.39. This figure represents an increase of about 1% compared to the same period last year. While this amount is average, not all individuals receive the same amount. It depends on how much salary you earned during your career, how many years you worked, at what age you applied for benefits, and whether or not you are married.
For example, if a person worked continuously for 35 years and earned a high salary, his or her Social Security amount will be higher. On the other hand, people who have been in minimum-wage jobs or who have worked for fewer years will receive relatively fewer benefits.
At What Age Do Social Security Benefits Begin?
Most people in the US want to know when they can start receiving Social Security checks. Generally, you can start receiving Social Security benefits as early as age 62, provided you meet the necessary work history and contribution requirements. However, this age is considered ‘early retirement,’ and taking benefits at this age comes with certain deductions.
On the other hand, Full Retirement Age (FRA) is usually between 66 and 67 years, depending on your birth year. If a person waits until this age, he receives full benefits, with no deductions. And if a person waits until age 70, he can get a higher monthly payment under ‘Delayed Retirement Credits.’
Maximum Benefit Comparison by Retirement Age in 2025
It is extremely useful to understand how much maximum benefit you can get if you retire at different ages. In 2025, the maximum monthly benefit a person who retires at age 62 can get is about $2,710. If the same person retires at age 67, the amount can be around $3,822. And if he delays taking benefits until age 70, the maximum amount can reach $4,873.
This difference shows that if a person delays taking benefits, he can receive a much higher amount monthly. But for this, it is necessary for the person to remain healthy, financially capable and employed.
Why is it important to know the average benefit amount?
Knowing the average amount of Social Security not only strengthens your financial planning, but you also get an idea of what your sources of income will be after your retirement. This helps you to budget your expenses and make strategies to meet health insurance, housing and other needs.
Moreover, this information becomes even more important for those who are not receiving income from pensions, retirement savings or other private sources. For them, Social Security becomes the main source of income.
How is a Social Security benefit calculated?
The SSA calculates your benefit based on your “AIME” (Average Indexed Monthly Earnings) and PIA (Primary Insurance Amount). For this, your best 35 years of earnings are looked at, and they are ‘indexed’ according to the current time. Your benefit is then calculated according to a formula, which is divided into three different brackets.
Also, if you take early retirement or delay it, your PIA is reduced or increased. So choosing the right age can significantly affect your monthly amount.
Future Planning: Should You Wait?
If your financial situation and health permit, waiting until age 67 or 70 may be beneficial, as this may provide you with higher monthly benefits. However, everyone’s circumstances are different—some people have to retire early due to health reasons or other family needs.
It is therefore essential that you consult a financial advisor and make a decision based on your individual situation. But one thing is for sure—Social Security is a vital support in your retirement, and understanding it better prepares you for the future.
Conclusion: Age 67 and Social Security Balance
Age 67 is the time for full retirement for most people, when they can receive their benefits without any reductions. A person retiring at this age in 2025 can receive an average monthly amount of $2,000–$3,800, which can be enough to sustain him or her if other sources are also available.
If you are around this age, it is essential that you calculate your benefits accurately from the SSA website, keep your work history updated, and keep your banking details correct so that there is no interruption in payments.
Remember, retirement is a new beginning—and it can be even better with the right information, awareness and planning.
FAQs
Q. What is the average Social Security check at age 67 in 2025?
A. The average monthly Social Security check at age 67 in 2025 is approximately $2,002.39.
Q. Is age 67 considered full retirement age?
A. Yes, for most people born after 1960, age 67 is considered full retirement age by the SSA.
Q. Can I receive more than the average benefit at 67?
A. Yes, your benefit may be higher based on your earnings history and number of working years.
Q. Will I receive the same amount every month?
A. Yes, unless there is a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), your monthly benefit remains consistent.
Q. Do I need to apply separately to receive benefits at 67?
A. Yes, you must apply for Social Security benefits; they are not issued automatically.
