8. Check for Mistakes

You receive a Social Security statement every year. Don’t assume it’s accurate. Make sure you carefully check the numbers, and if there’s any error, report it to the Social Security Administration. You can also see your Social Security statement online by creating an account (head to their website to learn more).

This tool is useful for people of all ages who want to stay updated on their current earnings history and future Social Security benefits.

Remember, your Social Security checks are calculated according to the average of your 25 highest-earning years. A miscalculation for even one of those years could affect your Social Security checks for the rest of your life.