The wage base limit is the maximum amount of income subject to the Social Security payroll tax each year. You must earn above the wage base limit for at least 35 years to qualify for the maximum ...
Planning for retirement means understanding what you can realistically expect from Social Security. While the program sets a maximum benefit amount each year, very few retirees actually receive it.
Social Security calculates your monthly benefits using the 35 years when your earnings were the highest. You need to earn above the wage base limit for 35 years to be eligible for the maximum benefit.