In 2017, an SSI recipient’s individual income increased from $733 per month to $735 per month. A couple’s SSI benefit increased from $1,100 per month to $1,103 per month.
Retired workers received a $5 bump on average, to $1,360.
Average Monthly Social Security Benefits 2017
The following are the estimated average monthly Social Security benefits payable beginning in January 2017.
All Retired Workers – $1,360
Aged Couple, Both Receiving Benefits – $2,260
Widowed Mother and Two Children – $2,695
Aged Widow(er) Alone – $1,300
Disabled Worker, Spouse and One or More Children – $1,996
All Disabled Workers – $1,171
The Social Security earnings limit for people age 65 and younger will increase from $15,720 in 2016 to $16,920 in 2017. Social Security beneficiaries who earn more than this amount will have $1 in benefits withheld for every $2 in earned income over the limit.
High Earners Pay More Taxes
Earn More Without Affecting Benefits
Taking retirement benefits early while still working can temporarily reduce your monthly check — depending on your annual income. In 2017, for every $2 you earn above $16,920, one dollar of benefits will be withheld. In the year you reach your full retirement age, $1 of benefits will be withheld for every $3 earned above $44,880. Once you reach full retirement age, Social Security will recalculate your benefits to give you credit for those withholdings.