How is my Social Security benefit calculated?

Published: January 27, 2026

Full question: I’m thinking about retiring in June. Will my benefit be based on the half year or my last year’s earnings?

Hello,

Your retirement benefit is based on your highest 35 years of earnings, after being adjusted for inflation, and then also on the age you begin collecting. Here are more details on how your retirement benefit is determined.

Take care,
Martha

Find An RSSA®
Back to All