Q & A
How much can I earn while receiving Social Security retirement benefits?
The amount you can earn while receiving Social Security depends on your age. Your earnings in (and after) the month you reach full retirement age will not affect your Social Security benefits. However, your benefit is reduced if your earnings exceed certain limits for the months before you reach your full retirement age.
If you are under full retirement age for the entire year:
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You can earn $14,640 gross wages or net self-employment a year and not lose any benefits in 2012.
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We will deduct $1 in benefits for every $2 earned above $14,640.
In the year you reach full retirement age:
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You can earn $38,880 gross wages or net self-employment prior to the month you reach full retirement age and not lose any benefits in 2012.
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We will deduct $1 in benefits for every $3 earned above $38,880.
The same earnings limits apply to a spouse or child who works and receives benefits on your record. You should report earnings to us for any months and years prior to full retirement age.
Use the Retirement Earnings Test Calculator to get an estimate of the effect of your earnings on your benefits.
If you work outside the United States, refer to Your Payments While Outside The United States.
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