As of March 2026, around 56.8 million people in the United States are receiving Social Security benefits, with the average monthly payment for retired workers set at $2,079.49. This amount reflects a slight increase from $2,076.41 in February 2026. Social Security payments are influenced by factors such as lifetime earnings, age at claiming, and marital status. Individuals can begin receiving benefits at age 62, with full benefits available at ages 66 or 67, and maximum benefits at age 70. For those who delay claiming until age 70, the maximum monthly benefit can reach $5,181, significantly higher than the $2,969 available at age 62. Average benefits vary by age and gender, with men typically receiving higher amounts than women. For example, the average monthly benefit for men at age 66 is $2,365, while for women it is $1,874. To estimate their benefits, individuals can create an account on the Social Security Administration (SSA) website and utilize their online calculator, which considers personal earnings history.