Whether you're ready to apply or looking to learn more about applying for Social Security, we'll fill you in on the details.

As of December 2024, over 51 million Americans received retired worker benefits, with many relying on them for a chunk or all of their retirement income. Unfortunately, Social Security benefits are still considered income and may be subject to taxes.

During that time, Social Security retirement benefits have also experienced a change. In 2005, the average monthly Social Security benefit was $1,002, or just over $12,000 annually. To start this year, the average monthly benefit for a retired worker was $1,975.

To see all of your Social Security benefits, you need to sign up for a My Social Security account. Note that if you've already signed up for a login.gov or ID.me account, you can skip the following steps and just sign into your account. If you've never signed up for either of these services before, here's what you need to do.

Social Security spousal benefits depend on the claim age of the spouse and the primary insurance amount (PIA) of the retired worker on whose record they claim benefits. The term PIA references the benefit a retired worker will receive if they start Social Security at full retirement age (FRA), which is age 67 for anyone born in 1960 or later.

Social Security benefits are eligible for a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). The purpose of COLAs is to make sure that benefits are able to keep up with inflation. But unfortunately, they often fall short.

Here is all you need to know about this month’s Social Security payments, which go out in three rounds. When am I eligible? Citizens are eligible for Social Security payments be

There aren't many social programs in the U.S. that have had as much of a positive impact as Social Security retirement benefits. Since 1961, the earliest anyone can claim Social Security retirement benefits is age 62.

Social Security is a cornerstone of retirement income for many Americans, yet the amount you receive isn't set in stone. Understanding how to optimize your benefits can significantly impact your financial future.