In June 2026, the average Social Security check for retired workers reached $2,084.40 monthly, reflecting a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment. Over 57 million beneficiaries received payments, with the maximum benefit at age 70 reaching $5,181 before taxes and Medicare deductions.
A 2025 Congressional Research Service report found that approximately 19% of Americans 65 and older rely on Social Security for 90% or more of their income, though Census Bureau research using IRS records found a lower figure of 14%. While Social Security provides 30% of total income for all Americans 65 and older, its importance grows with age, accounting for 40% of income among those 80 and older.