“$1375 Social Security Checks: Eligibility & How to Claim”

In recent years, there has been growing interest in how much Social Security recipients can expect to receive each month, especially as cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) rise to keep pace with inflation. For many Americans, Social Security checks are a vital source of income in retirement, or for those who qualify due to disability or other factors. As of 2025, some recipients can expect monthly checks that reach up to $1375, depending on their work history, contributions, and other eligibility criteria.

In this article, we’ll break down what you need to know about the $1375 monthly Social Security benefit, who qualifies, and the steps you need to take to claim it.

What is Social Security?

Social Security is a government program designed to provide financial support to individuals who are retired, disabled, or otherwise unable to work due to various qualifying reasons. The Social Security Administration (SSA), a U.S. government agency, manages this program, which includes several different types of benefits.

The primary types of Social Security benefits include:

• Retirement benefits: Available to individuals who are aged 62 or older and have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a sufficient number of years.
• Disability benefits: Available to those who can no longer work due to a disability and meet the SSA’s strict criteria for eligibility.
• Survivor benefits: Paid to the spouse, children, or parents of a deceased worker who was covered under Social Security.

The amount an individual can expect to receive each month is determined by several factors, including their lifetime earnings, the number of years worked, and the age at which they begin to claim benefits.

Understanding the $1375 Monthly Social Security Benefit

The Social Security benefit amount is calculated based on an individual’s average indexed monthly earnings (AIME), which is derived from their highest-earning 35 years of work. The amount you receive depends on your work history and when you choose to start taking benefits. As of recent estimates, many individuals are seeing monthly checks that average around $1375.

However, it’s essential to understand that $1375 is the average benefit for some individuals, not necessarily the exact amount everyone will receive. The actual amount can vary widely based on individual circumstances, such as:

• Your lifetime earnings: The more you earned during your career, the higher your Social Security benefit will be.
• When you begin receiving benefits: You can begin claiming Social Security benefits as early as age 62, but the longer you wait (up to age 70), the higher your monthly payment will be.
• Cost-of-living adjustments (COLA): Social Security benefits are adjusted for inflation annually, which can increase the monthly benefit amount.

While $1375 is common for a significant portion of recipients, individuals with higher lifetime earnings might receive more, while those with less may receive less.

Eligibility Criteria for Social Security Benefits

To qualify for Social Security benefits, you need to meet the following eligibility requirements:

1. Age:
   • Retirement Benefits: You must be at least 62 years old to begin receiving retirement benefits, although waiting until your full retirement age (typically 66 or 67, depending on your birth year) will maximize your benefits.
   • Disability Benefits: To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must be unable to work for at least one year due to a medical condition, and you must have earned enough work credits.
   • Survivor Benefits: Family members of deceased workers may be eligible for survivor benefits, depending on their relationship to the deceased and other factors.
2. Work Credits: Social Security uses a credit system to determine your eligibility. You earn up to four credits per year based on your income from working. For 2025, you earn one credit for every $1,600 you earn (subject to change yearly). To qualify for Social Security retirement benefits, you need at least 40 credits (equivalent to about 10 years of work). For disability benefits, the required credits vary by age.
3. Social Security Taxes: To qualify for Social Security benefits, you must have paid Social Security taxes on your earnings during your working years. The SSA tracks these payments through your payroll taxes, which fund the Social Security system.
4. Disability: For those applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must meet the SSA’s definition of “disability.” This means you must have a severe, long-lasting condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death.

How to Claim Your Social Security Benefits

Once you’ve met the eligibility requirements, you can claim your Social Security benefits by following these steps:

1. Create a My Social Security Account: The easiest way to apply for benefits is online. Visit the Social Security Administration’s website (www.ssa.gov) and create a My Social Security account. This account allows you to access your earnings record, apply for benefits, and manage your payments once they start.
2. Apply Online or In-Person: You can apply for Social Security benefits online, over the phone, or by visiting your local Social Security office. Applying online is generally the quickest and most convenient option, and it will allow you to start the process without having to wait for an appointment.
3. Provide Required Documentation: When applying, you will need to provide various documents to verify your identity and work history. These may include:
   • Your Social Security number
   • Proof of age (birth certificate or passport)
   • Your work history (pay stubs, tax returns, etc.)
   • Bank account information for direct deposit
4. Review Your Application: Once your application is submitted, the SSA will review your documents and determine your eligibility. If you’re applying for disability benefits, they will also review your medical records and work history to decide whether you qualify.
5. Wait for Your Decision: After you apply, the SSA will make a decision regarding your benefits. If approved, they will notify you of the amount and start date of your monthly payments.

Maximizing Your Social Security Benefits

To make the most of your Social Security payments, consider the following tips:

1. Delay Claiming for Maximum Benefits: If you can afford to wait, delaying your claim until after your full retirement age (FRA) can increase your monthly benefit. For each year you delay between age 62 and 70, your benefit can increase by about 8%.
2. Check Your Earnings Record: Regularly check your earnings record through your My Social Security account. Make sure the SSA has a complete and accurate history of your earnings to avoid any errors in your benefit calculation.
3. Consider Spousal Benefits: If you’re married, your spouse may be able to claim spousal benefits, which could be higher than their own Social Security benefits. In some cases, it’s more beneficial for one spouse to delay claiming benefits until they reach a higher amount.

Conclusion

Social Security plays a crucial role in the financial stability of millions of Americans, and a monthly check of $1375 can make a significant difference in people’s lives. To qualify for this amount or higher, it’s essential to meet the eligibility criteria, including sufficient work credits and age requirements. By following the right steps to apply and considering ways to maximize your benefits, you can ensure you get the most out of your Social Security payments.

For those planning for retirement or facing disability, Social Security benefits provide a crucial safety net. Taking the time to understand the application process and how to qualify for benefits can make all the difference in securing financial security for the future.

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