If Your Social Security Check Is On Track to Be Less Than $5,251 in 2026, Consider These Changes

Core Insights - The maximum Social Security benefit in 2026 is $5,251, but very few individuals will receive this amount [1][7] - To enhance future retirement security, individuals should focus on increasing their income and planning to delay their benefits claim [1] Income Increase - Increasing income is crucial for those not on track to receive the maximum Social Security benefit, as benefits are approximately 40% of pre-retirement earnings [3] - The wage base limit for Social Security tax in 2026 is $184,500, up from $176,100 in 2025, and this limit is adjusted annually for inflation [5] - Earning more, whether through a salary increase or side gig, can lead to a higher Social Security check in the future [5] Delaying Benefits Claim - Delaying the claim for Social Security benefits can maximize the monthly check, with the maximum benefit available only to those who claim at age 70 [6] - Delayed retirement credits increase the Social Security check for each month benefits are postponed after reaching full retirement age [8] - Individuals not earning the maximum benefit can still optimize their personal benefit by waiting until age 70 to claim [8]