Here's the Average Woman's Social Security Benefit by Age

Social Security payouts for women remain lower than those for men at every stage of life, according to the latest figures from December 2025. The average monthly benefit for women stands at $1,872.43, $409.85 less than the $2,282.28 men receive on average. This disparity widens with age, with women receiving $73 more per month at age 70 than the average check.

The Social Security Administration calculates benefits based on a 35-year average of a worker's highest wages, adjusted for inflation and through the primary insurance amount formula. The earnings history of women has historically resulted in lower lifetime earnings and less time in the workforce compared to men, contributing to the gender pay gap in retirement benefits.

The full retirement age for claiming benefits ranges from 66 to 67, depending on birth year, and is 67 for those born in 1960 or later. Claiming benefits early at 62 results in reduced monthly payments, while delaying until age 70 yields eight percent annual increases. Women's benefits generally last longer due to longer life expectancies, typically about three years more than men.

With a 3.6 percent cost-of-living adjustment set to begin in 2027, the average 70-year-old woman would see her benefit increase by $73 per month. Women may also be eligible for spousal or survivor benefits, which can provide additional income based on their spouse's work record. These benefits can be up to 50% of the amount their spouse would qualify for at retirement age, or up to 100% if their own benefit is lower.