If you think most of your retirement income will come from Social Security, think again. The average monthly Social Security retirement benefit was recently $1,677 -- totaling about $20,000 per year. Yes, you might collect more, but probably not that much more. The maximum monthly payout is currently $4,194 (about $50,000 annually), and it's quite difficult to qualify for that.

So no matter your age right now, it's smart to learn a bit more about Social Security and be aware of steps you can take now and later to maximize what you get out of the program. Here are four solid strategies to consider.

Image source: Getty Images.

Continue reading

Source Fool.com