2026-01-08

What Is the Maximum Social Security Benefit You Can Get in 2026?

If you’re thinking about retiring soon, you should know that Social Security benefits will increase in 2026. This is because the Social Security Administration will update its payment amounts to match a 2.8% rise in the cost of living (known as COLA).

The maximum benefit you can receive also changes, especially if you have earned the highest taxable amount throughout your career.

How Much Is the Maximum Social Security Benefit in 2026?

The most you can get from Social Security in 2026 depends on when you start collecting your benefits:

If you start at age 70: The maximum monthly payment is $5,181. This is the highest amount, and you get it if you wait until age 70 to begin collecting.
At full retirement age (66 or 67): The maximum monthly payment is $4,152 if you start at your full retirement age.
If you start early at age 62: The maximum you can get is $2,569 per month. Starting early means you receive a lower monthly payment.

What Do You Need to Get the Maximum Benefit?

Not everyone can receive the highest benefit. To qualify for the maximum amount, you must meet these three conditions:

Work at least 35 years: Social Security calculates your benefit amount based on your highest 35 years of earnings. If you worked fewer than 35 years, missing years count as zero, which lowers your average.
Earn the taxable maximum each year: For those 35 years, you need to earn at least the maximum amount that is taxed for Social Security. In 2026, this amount is $184,500.
Start collecting at age 70: To get the highest benefit, you must wait until you are 70 years old before starting to collect payments.

When Are Payments Sent Out?

Social Security payments are sent out on Wednesdays, starting with the second Wednesday of each month. The exact payment date depends on your birthday: