Millions of American veterans rely solely on Social Security for their income. With current data from the Social Security Administration (SSA) and information provided by financial experts, retirees can now estimate how much they will receive on average in September 2025.
This year, we received a 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), the lowest increase in four years. Although this is a modest increase over previous years, it has pushed median monthly benefits slightly higher, giving retirees some breathing room against inflation.
Average benefits in mid-2025
Based on SSA data, the figures read like this:
All retirement beneficiaries: Roughly $1,954 per month as of July 2025.
Retired workers: Averaging slightly over $2,006 per month by July, an amount that should remain constant up to September (SSA).
For context, in June, the average retired worker check was of $2,005.05, illustrating the steady payments given over summer.
The rare case of the maximum benefits
Though the average check amounts to around $2,000, others take much larger checks:
Claim at 62: Up to $2,831/month
Full retirement age (66-67): Up to $4,018/month
Wait until 70: Up to $5,108 a month (Bankrate)
This only applies to a small percentage of retirees who worked for 35 years and earned at or above the taxable income level before retiring at the age of 70. For the majority, the $2,000 monthly benefit is more realistic.
The importance behind it
Social Security was designed to replace roughly 40% of income before retirement. Most Americans, however, continue to receive their largest check of benefits prior to retirement. Most retirees will need additional savings, pensions, or part-time income to cover their total expenses.
Experts say it’s simply a matter of planning ahead. “Social Security is a foundation,” said a consultant, “but it was never intended to be the whole house.”
As of September 2025, retired workers can expect monthly averages of $2,006-$2,010 for retired workers and $1,950 for all beneficiaries.
Although the COLA increase provided a modest boost, it did not completely offset the rise in healthcare, housing, and living expenses.
However, this system continues to serve as the primary source of retirement income for more than 50 million Americans, providing stability during times of economic uncertainty.
