Why Joe Biden’s Social Security earnings are so high compared to working-class citizens
Here’s how munch money former president Joe Biden collects from Social Security.
The outrage! The shame! The sheer cheek of the man! Believe it or not, retired citizen of the United States, Joe Biden, collects a monthly retirement check just like everyone else eligible for the social scheme.
Yes, that’s right: the former President of the United States of America collects his Social Security benefits in the exact same way as any other American who’s paid into the system over decades. And it is exactly his long and storied career as a senator, vice president, and president that allows him to earn a relatively hefty monthly income compared with the average retiree. Read on... if you dare!
How much does Joe Biden receive from Social Security?
Look away now, MAGA: according to his and Jill Biden’s jointly filed 2023 tax return, Joe received $42,842 in Social Security payments—roughly $3,570 a month. His wife, Jill Biden, received about $21,412 for the year, or $1,784 a month, which is nearly exactly half, likely reflecting spousal benefits capped at 50% under SSA rules.
Why does Joe Biden earn so much from Social Security?
The size of Joe Biden’s monthly benefit reflects his many high-earning years in elected office. The Social Security Administration calculates benefits based on the top 35 years of inflation-adjusted earnings, and high earners like Biden who consistently exceeded the taxable wage cap consequently receive larger checks.
Even so, the SSA places a maximum limit on monthly payouts at full retirement age—$3,627 per month in 2023, rising to $3,822 in 2024.
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In terms of comparing these numbers to the, ahem, average Joe, as of June 2025, the typical retired worker’s benefit stood at around $2,005 per month, meaning Biden’s Social Security income is well above the norm.
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