Couples who can rely on one spouse’s earnings or part-time work may benefit by letting the larger benefit grow.
Claiming wisely maximizes benefits
Higher survivor benefits could protect the last living spouse.
Strategies to maximize Social Security include:
1. Maximizing your 35 highest-earning years, as even a single year of part-time work can replace a low-earning year. 2.
Coordinating spousal benefits, with the lower-earning spouse potentially filing first while the higher-earning spouse waits. 3. Keeping combined income below $44,000 for couples to prevent federal taxes from hitting 85% of benefits.
4. Building a modest personal nest egg or delaying 401(k) withdrawals to preserve Social Security buying power, as cost-of-living adjustments often lag behind the rise in essential expenses. The “average” middle-class Social Security check in 2025 is only average if claimed early.
Patience, strategic earnings, and smart tax planning can turn a $1,869 payment into more than $3,300—money that keeps the lights on and dreams alive.
