The $4873 Social Security payment refers to the maximum monthly benefit a retiree can receive in 2025 if they meet certain requirements. This figure is updated annually based on cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) and wage growth.
To receive the maximum benefit of $4873 Social Security payment per month in 2025, you must meet all three of the following criteria:
Retire at age 70:
The Social Security Administration offers delayed retirement credits for those who wait beyond the full retirement age (FRA), which increases your monthly payment significantly.
Earn the maximum taxable income for 35 years:
In 2025, this means consistently earning at or above the Social Security wage cap ($168,600 in 2024; slightly higher in 2025).
Have 35 years of covered work history:
Social Security calculates your benefits based on your highest 35 years of earnings. Any year with zero income brings down your average.
Maximize Your Earnings Early and Often
Aim to earn at or above the annual wage cap for as many years as possible.
High-income earners benefit the most due to Social Security’s progressive formula.
Delay Claiming Benefits Until Age 70
Every year you delay past your FRA (up to age 70) increases your benefit by approximately 8%.
Claiming at 62 can reduce your benefit by up to 30%.
Ensure 35 Years of Earnings
Work at least 35 years. Fewer years result in $0 income years in your calculation.
If you have low-earning years early in your career, consider working longer to replace them with higher-earning years.
Review Your Social Security Statement Regularly
Use your My Social Security account to track earnings and estimates.
Correct errors quickly to ensure accurate benefit calculations.
Not quite. The $4873 Social Security payment is attainable only for high-income earners who delay benefits until age 70. However, by understanding how the system works, anyone can optimize their Social Security payments to get as close to the maximum as possible.
Getting the full $4873 Social Security payment in 2025 is a rare achievement, but it's a useful benchmark. Even if you don’t reach the maximum, following these steps can significantly increase your monthly benefit and provide greater financial stability during retirement.