Although they were never intended to fully replace an income in retirement, Social Security benefits play a prominent part in the average person's financial picture. The Social Security Administration estimates its monthly payouts to retirees are about 40% of middle-income workers' pre-retirement wages. That proportion is higher for retirees who earned less during their working years, and lower for higher earners.

Either way, the more you put into the pool, the more you get back out when it comes time to start drawing.

But how do you ensure this year's maximum monthly payout of $4,555? Here's a closer look at what it takes.

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Source Fool.com