Social Security Calculator
Estimate U.S. Social Security retirement benefits from AIME and PIA bend points, adjusted by claiming age (62–70).
Input Data
Results
Monthly benefit by claiming age
At a glance:U.S. Social Security first computes a baseline monthly PIA from AIME via: 90% of the first bend point + 32% of the next + 15% above. It is then adjusted for claiming age vs FRA: early claiming reduces it, delaying to 70 adds about 8% per year.
Formula
PIA = 90%×min(AIME, bend1) + 32%×(min(AIME,bend2)−bend1) + 15%×(AIME−bend2).
Early: ~5/9% per month less (first 36 mo), then 5/12% per month.
Delayed: ~2/3% per month more (about 8%/yr), capped at age 70.
Monthly benefit = PIA × age-adjustment factor.
How to Use
- Enter your AIME (35-year highest indexed average monthly earnings).
- Set your FRA and planned claiming age (62–70).
- View the PIA baseline and monthly/annual benefit.
FAQ
Claim early or delay?
It depends on life expectancy and cash needs. Claiming at 62 gives lower monthly but more years; delaying to 70 gives the highest monthly (about 24%–32% above FRA) but fewer years if you die early. If you expect a long life and have other income, delaying often wins in total value.
Do the PIA bend points change?
Yes, they are indexed to average wages each year. This calculator uses recent approximations (~$1,174 / ~$7,078) for illustration; your actual PIA is per SSA's records using the year's bend points.
Does this apply in Hong Kong?
No. Social Security is a U.S. federal pension, unrelated to Hong Kong's MPF or CSSA; amounts in USD for illustration only. Use the MPF calculator for Hong Kong.
Related Tools
References
Content review: Calculatorism Finance Team. PIA formula and age adjustment follow public SSA guidance for educational reference only; actual per SSA records.