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February 20.2026

2 Minutes Read

Unlock Extra Social Security Benefits: 3 Essential Strategies for 2026

Close-up of Social Security cards stack for applying in Muskegon.

Maximize Your Social Security Benefits: A Guide for Seniors

As you approach retirement, maximizing your Social Security benefits is crucial for ensuring financial stability. Social Security plays a significant role in many retirees' incomes, often replacing about 40% of pre-retirement earnings. Knowing how to strategically claim these benefits can increase your checks significantly. Here’s how you can get more Social Security in 2026.

Delay Your Claim for Bigger Payments

One of the most effective ways to increase your Social Security benefits is by delaying your claim past your full retirement age—67 for those born in 1960 or later. For each year you wait to claim benefits between your full retirement age and age 70, your benefits increase by approximately 8%. This means you could start receiving a significantly larger check each month, which can greatly enhance your financial security during retirement.

Ensure Your Earnings Record is Accurate

Your benefits depend heavily on your reported earnings. To ensure you’re not shortchanged, it’s important to review your earnings statement on the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) website. Any discrepancies in your reported income could lead to lower benefits. By verifying your earnings and promptly addressing any inaccuracies, you can ensure you’re entitled to the correct benefit amount when you decide to claim.

Work Later in Life to Replace $0 Income Years

Social Security calculates your benefits based on your highest 35 years of earnings. If you lack 35 years of work history, those missing years count as $0 earnings, significantly impacting your benefit calculation. By working part-time or full-time past traditional retirement age, you have the opportunity to replace any missing income years with earned income, thus potentially boosting your benefits when you do claim.

Following these strategies can substantially improve your monthly Social Security checks, giving you more flexibility and peace of mind during retirement. If you reside in Muskegon, take the time to review your options to apply for benefits or check the accuracy of your earnings statement. It's essential to understand the application process thoroughly and ensure you're claiming your rightful benefits.

For help with your Social Security questions, local resources in Muskegon can provide guidance on applying for Social Security and understanding eligibility requirements. Don't hesitate to explore personalized assistance that can make a significant difference in your retirement planning.

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Unlock Extra Social Security Benefits: 3 Essential Strategies for 2026

Maximize Your Social Security Benefits: A Guide for Seniors

Delay Your Claim for Bigger Payments

Ensure Your Earnings Record is Accurate

Work Later in Life to Replace $0 Income Years

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