In 2025, the maximum monthly benefit Social Security will pay is $5,108. To be clear, though, that's higher than the program's maximum benefit at full retirement age this year. Those looking at $5,108 a month in Social Security need to delay their claims until the age of 70 to lock in payments that high.

Facing unemployment as you near retirement can be daunting, but understanding your options can provide a financial safety net. You may qualify for both unemployment insurance and Social Security benefits simultaneously.

As of January 2025, the average monthly Social Security benefit was $1,976. That amounts to a little under $24,000 per year, which isn't a ton of money to live on. That's why it's not a bad idea at all to work at the same time you're collecting Social Security.