Social Security does an excellent job of replacing a substantial portion of American workers’ pre-retirement income, and they all want as much as they can get from the program. In 2017, the maximum Social Security benefit depends on when the recipient files for benefits. Those who are eligible for the maximum amount will receive $2,153 per month if they file at the earliest possible age of 62. Their benefits will rise for every month they delay Social Security, up until age 70, when their monthly check will max out at $3,538 per month. In the future, those maximums are likely to go up.