Social Security is an integral part of retirement for millions of older adults. Roughly 83% of U.S. adults who have not yet retired say that their benefits will make up at least some of their income in retirement, according to a 2023 poll from Gallup, and more than one-third say it will be a major source of income.

If you're going to be relying heavily on your benefits to make ends meet, finding ways to maximize your payments could result in a much more financially secure retirement.

Your benefits are based on several factors, and knowing how much the average retiree receives -- and how to beat that figure -- can set you up for success down the road.

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Source Fool.com