For some households, it makes sense for a worker to start reduced retirement benefits early in order to permit other family members to immediately start collecting Social Security benefits on the workerâs earnings record.
Social Security is a key source of financial support, and keeping track of the changes that happen with the program each year is crucial in order to plan your financial future. Keep these facts in mind, and you'll be better prepared to hit the ground running in 2018.
According to the Social Security Administration, Social Security benefits make up about 38% of the income of the elderly. In general, single people depend more heavily on Social Security checks than do married people. In 2014, the average monthly retirement income from Social Security was $1,294. Thatâs just $15,528 per year in Social Security benefits. Keep in mind, though, that your Social Security benefits could be smaller.