A bigger Social Security benefit check can go a long way in retirement. Around half of all retirees 65 or older receive at least 50% of their household income from the government benefits program, according to survey data compiled by the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Although many retirees in line for the maximum Social Security benefit might be planning to claim when they reach full retirement age in 2024, that might not be the best decision. Even if you earn enough in your career to maximize your Social Security benefits, there's still a huge difference in the amount you'll receive at age 66 -- which is near full retirement age for those reaching it in 2024 -- and 70, when you'll max out your monthly benefits check.

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Source Fool.com