Here's the Average Women's Social Security Benefit From Ages 62 to 70
Women retiring at 62 collect significantly less than men, a gap that widens with age and reflects decades of earnings differences.
Across all age groups, women receive lower average Social Security benefits than men. As of December 2025, the average monthly benefit for women is $1,872.43, compared to $2,282.28 for men. This results in a $409.85 monthly gap. The Social Security Administration (SSA) calculates benefits using a person's 35 highest-earning years, adjusted for inflation, and then applying the primary insurance amount (PIA) formula.
The full retirement age (FRA) ranges from 66 to 67, depending on birth year, with everyone born in 1960 or later reaching it at 67. Claiming before FRA results in an early-claim reduction of up to 30%, while waiting until 70 earns delayed retirement credits, increasing checks by 8% per year. The gap widens as retirees age; at 70, men receive an average of $2,529.62, compared to $2,024.08 for women, a $505.54 monthly difference.
The data reflects historical earnings and workforce participation gaps. Women's average benefits are expected to last longer, as women turning 65 in 2025 are projected to live 21 more years, while men are expected to live 18 more years. A 3.6% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) will take effect in 2027, adding about $73 to the average benefit for a 70-year-old woman.
Social Security is designed to replace only 40% of pre-retirement income, which is insufficient for most retirees' needs, necessitating additional savings or income sources. Most individuals rely on other income to supplement benefits. Women often claim spousal or survivor benefits on their partner's work record, as these are typically higher than benefits earned alone.
Spousal benefits are up to 50% of the partner's amount at FRA, with no incentive to delay past it. Once a partner passes away, survivors can claim a benefit up to 100% of what the deceased was receiving or eligible for at the time of death. To learn more about eligibility and the application process, contact the Social Security Administration through phone or a local office appointment.
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