A social security benefit of $4,194 is the highest monthly benefit you can collect. Though you should not depend on security benefits for your livelihood after retirement, this particular social security benefit can be an incredible help. However, not everyone would be able to collect this big security benefit. They need to fit into a certain criterion to claim it. So let us see what makes people eligible for this.
Taxpayers with high income
To be eligible, you need to meet or cross the wage cap of $147,000 for a minimum of your 35 years of paid service. In fact, to grab maximum benefits, it is crucial to maintain high earnings throughout the working years.
Delayed social security filing
Taxpayers who have not filed for receiving the social security benefits even after reaching their Full Retirement Age can enjoy high security benefits of $4,194. Such taxpayers get the 8% increased benefits till age 70 by postponing the social security filing.
Will $4,194 be enough for retirement?
As per LA Crosse Tribune, social security replaces a minor percent of pre-retirement income. And, due to the formula of social benefits being progressive, it results in less money security for higher-earning individuals. The monthly social benefits will get lower than what they were earning prior to retiring.
Though their pre-retirement income will cover a minimum of 40% after they leave the job, it is still lower than their regular annual earnings.
What are the alternatives?
A high earner needs to retain at least 80% of the benefits of their pre-retirement income. But, with provided social security, it seems not to be possible. Hence, instead of seeking the $4,196 monthly social security benefit, people can focus on money saving that can cover at least 50% of their income. It will help them to have something else to rely upon for their retirement needs other than social security benefits alone.
However, it is good to stay eligible to gain maximum benefits from the social security provided. The combination of both approaches can be beneficial in the long term, giving you different sources of monthly payments.
