If you’re aiming to maximize your Social Security benefits in 2026, the time to start planning is now.
While Social Security may seem like a distant concern for some, the decisions you make today can have a significant impact on how much you’ll receive in the future.
Here’s what you need to do now to ensure you get the largest Social Security check possible when the time comes.
1. Work Longer to Increase Your Benefits
One of the most straightforward ways to increase your Social Security check is by working longer. Social Security benefits are based on your 35 highest-earning years. If you haven’t yet worked for 35 years, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will use zeroes to fill in the gaps, which lowers your average earnings.
By continuing to work, especially if you’re earning more than you did in previous years, you’ll increase your lifetime average earnings, which will boost your Social Security benefits. If you already have 35 years of earnings, working longer and replacing lower-earning years can still help raise your benefit amount.
2. Delay Claiming Benefits for a Bigger Payout
While you can start claiming Social Security benefits at age 62, doing so will reduce your monthly payment. On the other hand, if you can afford to delay claiming your benefits until you’re 70, you’ll receive a significantly higher monthly amount.
For each year you delay taking your benefits after your full retirement age (which is between 66 and 67, depending on when you were born), your benefits will increase by about 8% per year. This can result in a much larger check when you do start receiving your benefits, potentially adding thousands of dollars over the course of your retirement.
3. Maximize Your Earnings to Increase Your Average Indexed Monthly Earnings (AIME)
The SSA calculates your Social Security benefits based on your Average Indexed Monthly Earnings (AIME), which is derived from your highest-earning 35 years. To ensure that you’re maximizing your AIME, try to boost your income by seeking promotions, taking on higher-paying roles, or pursuing additional education or training to increase your earning potential.
If you’re self-employed, consider ways to maximize your taxable income in the years leading up to retirement. The more you earn (and pay Social Security taxes on), the higher your future Social Security benefit will be.
4. Consider the Impact of Your Spouse’s Benefits
If you’re married, your spouse’s Social Security benefits can also play a role in maximizing your overall Social Security payout. If your spouse earned significantly less than you, they might be eligible for spousal benefits, which could be as much as 50% of your full retirement benefit, depending on their age and when they choose to start claiming.
You can also coordinate your claiming strategies. For example, if your spouse is the higher earner, it may make sense for them to delay claiming to maximize their benefits while you claim earlier. On the other hand, if you’re the lower earner, it might be better for you to claim earlier and allow your spouse’s benefits to grow.
5. Stay Informed About Changes to Social Security
Social Security rules and policies change over time, and staying informed about those changes can help you make decisions that will benefit you in the long run. For example, there may be changes in the way benefits are calculated, new programs designed to assist retirees, or tax rules that could impact your Social Security income.
In particular, watch for changes in the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), which adjusts Social Security benefits based on inflation. If inflation rates are high, COLA increases could make a big difference in the amount you receive each year. Additionally, keep an eye on potential changes in the retirement age or tax laws that could impact your benefits.
6. Work with a Financial Planner
A financial planner can help you assess your specific situation and develop a strategy for maximizing your Social Security benefits in 2026. A planner can help you decide the best time to start claiming, estimate how long you need to work to increase your benefits, and factor in your overall retirement strategy. They can also help you understand how other income sources, such as pensions or 401(k) plans, will affect your Social Security benefits.
By working with a professional, you can create a comprehensive retirement plan that incorporates Social Security and ensures you’re making the most of all available resources.
7. Monitor Your Social Security Statement
The Social Security Administration sends out annual statements to show how much you’ve earned throughout your career and provide an estimate of your future benefits. It’s important to review these statements carefully to ensure the SSA has accurate records of your earnings. Mistakes happen, and errors in your work history could negatively affect your benefit amount.
If you notice any discrepancies, contact the SSA to have them corrected. The sooner you address any errors, the more likely you are to receive the correct benefit amount when you begin claiming Social Security.
While 2026 may seem far off, the actions you take now to boost your Social Security benefits can significantly impact your financial future. By working longer, maximizing your earnings, delaying your claims, and staying informed, you can secure a larger Social Security check when the time comes.
Remember, Social Security is just one part of your retirement plan. It’s important to have other savings and investments to ensure a comfortable retirement. Start planning now to make the most of what Social Security has to offer, and work with a financial planner to create a strategy that will help you achieve your long-term financial goals.
