Social Security Calculator
Estimate Social Security retirement benefits based on AIME and claiming age.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Social Security calculated?+
The SSA takes your 35 highest-earning years, adjusts them for inflation (indexes them), calculates your Average Indexed Monthly Earnings (AIME), then applies a three-tier formula: 90% of the first $1,286, plus 32% of earnings between $1,286 and $7,749, plus 15% of earnings above $7,749 (2026 bend points). The result is your Primary Insurance Amount (PIA) — your monthly benefit at Full Retirement Age.
What is Full Retirement Age?+
Full Retirement Age (FRA) is 67 for anyone born in 1960 or later. For those born 1955-1959, it gradually increases from 66 years and 2 months to 66 years and 10 months. At FRA, you receive 100% of your PIA, with no reduction or increase.
How much less will I get at 62?+
Claiming at 62 (with an FRA of 67) reduces your benefit by 30%. This reduction is permanent — it does not recover when you reach 67. For example, if your PIA is $2,000/month, you receive $1,400/month for life if you claim at 62.
How much more will I get at 70?+
Waiting until 70 earns delayed retirement credits of 8% per year past FRA. With an FRA of 67, waiting until 70 gives you 124% of your PIA. A $2,000 PIA becomes $2,480/month. No additional credits accrue after 70.
Are Social Security benefits taxable?+
Depending on your total income, up to 85% of your benefits may be taxable. If your combined income (AGI + nontaxable interest + half of your SS benefits) exceeds $25,000 (single) or $32,000 (married filing jointly), part of your benefits is taxable. Below these thresholds, benefits are tax-free.
What are spousal benefits?+
A spouse can receive up to 50% of the higher earner's PIA at FRA, if that is higher than their own benefit. The higher earner must already be claiming. Spousal benefits can be claimed as early as 62 (at a reduced rate). Spousal benefits earn no delayed retirement credits — there is no advantage to waiting past FRA.
What is the maximum Social Security benefit in 2026?+
The maximum monthly benefit in 2026 is $2,969 at 62, $4,152 at FRA, and $5,181 at 70. To get the maximum, you need to earn at or above the taxable maximum ($184,500 in 2026) in each of your 35 highest-earning years.
What if I work fewer than 35 years?+
The SSA always uses 35 years. If you work fewer than 35 years, zero-income years fill the gaps, dragging down your average. Each missing year reduces your AIME by 1/35. Even a few more years of work can significantly increase your benefit if they replace zero years.