These Are the 3 Most Important Factors for Getting More Social Security

"There are millions of Americans today who collect a monthly benefit from Social Security. And for many of them, that benefit is their primary or only source of retirement income. If you don't have much in the way of savings, you may be eager to score the largest monthly Social Security check possible. And even if you do have savings, there's unfortunately a risk of that money running out on you eventually."

"The formula used to calculate your Social Security benefits takes your 35 highest-paid years of earnings into account. For this reason, it's a good idea to make sure you have 35 years of work on record before signing up for benefits. If you're missing a year or two, you'll have a $0 factored into your benefits calculation. The result? Less money for you."

Social Security provides a lifelong monthly benefit that often serves as the primary or only retirement income for many Americans. Aiming for the largest possible Social Security check is sensible because savings can run out while benefits continue for life. Benefit calculations use the 35 highest-paid years of earnings, so having fewer than 35 years results in zeroes that lower benefits. Replacing lower-earning years with higher late-career wages can raise the benefit amount. Earlier wages receive inflation adjustments, but later higher earnings can still improve the final benefit calculation.

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