Alternatively, delaying payments until you hit 70 could mean a boost in yearly benefits, potentially adding $16,728. To dive deeper into the details on claiming the $16,728 Social Security Bonus, give this post a read. Knowing the ins and outs is important.
How to Maximize Social Security Bonus?
Boosting the amount you’re eligible for can be achieved by crafting your own bonus. Consider these approaches:
- Extend Your Work Years: The Social Security payments you receive are based on your highest 35 years of earnings. If there are years with minimal or no income, they’re factored into the calculation, bringing down your qualifying amount. Working additional years can replace those low-earning or zero-income years in your computation, potentially leading to a higher Social Security benefit. The Social Security Administration notes that each additional year of work can contribute to an increased benefit amount.
Increase your income with these smart strategies:
- Negotiate Regular Raises: Requesting a raise every two or three years is a practical way to boost your overall income. Additionally, changing employers during your career can establish your value and lead to increased earnings. The math shows that earning an extra $100 per week could result in an annual increase of $5,000, making it a valuable factor for your future Social Security benefits.
- Delay Collection Until Age 70: While you can start collecting Social Security benefits at age 62, holding off until age 70 can significantly enhance your retirement package. By waiting, you’re guaranteed your full benefit amount, and the benefits increase by about 8% for each year you delay, up to age 70. Taking inflation into account, the retirement payments at age 70 are a substantial 76% more than those received at age 62.
These practical tips are aimed at helping you maximize your retirement pensions and craft your own personalized bonus.
Social Security Payments Application Process
When it comes to applying for US Social Security benefits, the method depends on your citizenship. For US citizens, the application can be submitted online, over the phone, or in person at a local office.
Online Application Process: Applying online is a hassle-free option, especially suitable for those living abroad or unable to visit a local office. This method allows applicants to complete the process from any location, making it a convenient choice.
To secure social security benefits as a non-citizen in the US, the initial step involves obtaining a valid work permit authorized in the country. This process allows you to acquire your own Social Security number (SSN). Following this, non-citizens must provide documentation of their identification and immigration status to be eligible for receiving benefits.
Concluding Words
Estimate your 2024 Social Security benefits using The Senior Citizens League’s (TSCL) 3.2% projection. The recent Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) rise is expected to increase seniors’ average Social Security payout from $1,790 to $1,847.30, according to TSCL’s latest estimate. While this growth is lower than the previous year’s 8.7% increase due to slower inflation, it still surpasses the 2.6% average over the past two decades.
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