How are Social Security benefits primarily determined?

Social Security benefits are primarily determined based on the worker's earnings over their lifetime. This system is designed to provide retirement benefits that reflect an individual's contributions to the Social Security program, which are calculated based on the worker's highest 35 years of earnings. The more a worker has earned and contributed to Social Security throughout their career, the higher their benefits will be upon retirement.

This method of calculation ensures that those who have worked and paid into the system for a longer period, and at higher earning levels, receive benefits commensurate to their contributions. It takes into account the average indexed monthly earnings to arrive at a formula that sets the monthly benefit amount.

In contrast, the other options do not play a significant role in determining benefit amounts. While the age at retirement can affect the timing and amount of benefits (as taking benefits early can reduce the monthly amount), it doesn't directly determine the computation of benefits based on lifetime earnings. Job title and marital status do not factor into the calculation of Social Security benefits in any significant way, as benefits are strictly tied to earnings history, not the nature of the individual's employment or their personal relationships.