Question

How does Social Security function for high earners?

Answer

Social Security calculates your benefit using your 35 highest-earning years, indexed for wage growth. The maximum monthly benefit at full retirement age — 67 for anyone born in 1960 or later — is roughly $4,000 to $4,500 in 2026. Delaying to age 70 adds 8% per year, potentially reaching about $5,500 monthly. For couples, spousal and survivor benefit strategies can increase lifetime payouts. Keep in mind that provisional income above $34,000 for singles or $44,000 for joint filers triggers taxation of up to 85% of your benefits. A wealth advisor can help you time your claiming strategy to maximum lifetime value.

About Mercer Advisors

We exist so you don’t have to worry about money. For more than 40 years, we’ve taken the sophisticated, time-tested approach that many ultra-high net worth individuals use to help manage their financial lives and made it accessible to more families.

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