Core Insights - Social Security is a reliable income source that can provide increased benefits during inflation and guarantees lifetime payments [1] Strategies to Maximize Benefits - Delaying the claim of Social Security benefits until age 70 can significantly increase monthly payments, as benefits rise each month until that age [2] - Continuing to work and earn a higher income after claiming benefits can also enhance Social Security checks, as benefits are calculated based on the highest 35 earning years [4][6] - The Social Security Administration automatically recalculates benefits based on any higher earnings reported after benefits have been claimed, potentially replacing lower-earning years in the calculation [7]