Getting ready for retirement isn’t only about how much you’ve saved, it’s also about knowing what kind of reliable income you can expect. For a lot of retirees, Social Security isn’t just a small supplement; it’s a major part of their monthly income. Even though it might seem like just another government payment, it often serves as the financial foundation in retirement. Taking a look at the average benefit others receive can give you a more realistic sense of what your own payments might look like when the time comes.
In June 2025, retired workers received an average Social Security payment of $2,005.05 each month, based on the latest data from the Social Security Administration (SSA). This represents a small increase of $2.66 compared to the May average of $2,002.39. Since January, monthly benefits have risen by a total of $26.28, providing retirees with a gradual but consistent increase.
What Affects Your Monthly Benefit?
Your Social Security payment won’t exactly match the average because it’s based on your individual work history and earnings. Your benefit is affected by factors such as your lifetime earnings, the number of years you’ve worked, and the age at which you start claiming benefits. The SSA bases your payment on your 35 highest-earning years.
If you’re married, you may be eligible to receive benefits based on your spouse’s earnings rather than your own. These spousal benefits usually fall between 32.5% and 50% of your spouse’s full benefit amount, depending on the age you start claiming. Keep in mind, though, that spousal benefits cannot exceed 50% of the spouse’s benefit at full retirement age, and they won’t grow if you wait to claim beyond that age
Breakdown of June 2025 Social Security Benefits
In June 2025, the average Social Security payments varied depending on the type of recipient. Here’s how the numbers break down:
- All retirement beneficiaries: 55.8 million people received an average of $1,952.23
- Retired workers: 53 million received an average of $2,005.05
- Spouses of retired workers: 2.1 million received an average of $953.33
- Children of retired workers: 728,000 received an average of $924.87
Throughout the first half of 2025, these figures have gradually increased. Even modest monthly shifts highlight ongoing adjustments to benefit amounts.
Maximum Social Security Benefit in 2025
Most people won’t receive the average Social Security payment, and only a small number qualify for the highest possible amount. To be eligible for the maximum monthly benefit, you need to:
- Have at least 35 years of work history
- Consistently earn the maximum amount subject to Social Security taxes each year
- Delay collecting benefits until you turn 70
Below is a snapshot of what the top benefit looks like in 2025:
| Retirement Age | Monthly Maximum | Impact |
| 62 | $2,831 | 29.2% reduction (70.8% of full benefit) |
| 66 years and 10 months (FRA) | $4,018 | Full benefit |
| 70 | $5,108 | 30.7% increase over FRA amount |
Social Security Is Just One Piece of the Puzzle
Social Security is a key part of retirement income, but it’s designed to replace only about 40% of your earnings before retirement. This may not be enough for many people to fund their lifestyle when they stop working.
It is crucial to build savings through options like a 401(k), IRA, or other investments. You can always consult with a financial advisor or Social Security expert to assist you in reaching your financial goals.
Conclusion
Beneficiaries must be sure to keep updated with Social Security information and understand how their benefits are impacted. This can help you make smart financial decisions. With this knowledge, you will be able to build your retirement fund that does not depend entirely on Social Security.