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Rules about working and getting retirement, spouse, or survivor benefits are based on earnings limits.
Source: Social Security Administration
Photo: Courtesy
“Can I work and get benefits?” is perhaps one of the most common questions we’re asked. The answer depends on your age and your earnings.
Rules about working and getting retirement, spouse, or survivor benefits are based on earnings limits. If you’re getting benefits now (or will in the future) and plan to work, you should understand these limits so you can avoid being overpaid.
When you receive benefits from Social Security, you must report any changes that could affect your eligibility or payment amount. That includes changes in your work. Overpayments can occur if you underestimate your earnings or don’t report your earnings in a timely fashion.
Note: If you receive Social Security disability benefits or Supplemental Security Income payments, different rules apply. You must report all your earnings.
Annual earnings limits
These are the earnings rules if you receive retirement, spouse, or survivor benefits.
- If you are younger than full retirement age (referred to as FRA) for the entire year, you can earn up to $23,400 in 2025, and your benefits will not be reduced. If you told us you expect to earn more than $23,400 in 2025, we will deduct $1 from your benefits for each $2 you earn above the annual limit.
- If you reach FRA in 2025, you can earn up to $62,160 between January and your birthday month. We will deduct $1 from your benefits for each $3 you earn above $62,160 until the month you reach FRA.
- If you are full retirement age or older, there is no earnings limit.
Only your wages count toward the earnings limit. Social Security doesn’t count pensions, annuities, investment income, interest, veterans or other government benefits. If you’re self-employed, only your net earnings from self-employment are considered.
Special monthly rule
If you retire mid-year, you may already have earned more than the annual earnings limit ($23,400 in 2025). That’s why there is a special rule that may apply the first year of retirement. Under this rule, your benefits will not be reduced if you earn less than $1,950 in each of the remaining months.
For examples of how the rules work, read “How Work Affects Your Benefits.” You may also want to use our earnings test calculator to determine how your earnings could affect your benefit payments.
Your benefits are adjusted based on the earnings estimate you provided. If your earnings will be different from what you originally reprorted, alert Social Security right away by calling 1-800-772-1213. Timely reporting of any changes can ensure you are payed the correct amount. Next year your employer will report your actual 2025 earnings. If you receive payments you aren’t eligible for, Social Security is required by law to adjust your benefits or recover the overpayment.
Your benefits may increase based on your earnings
If Social Security withholds some of your benefits due to your earnings, your benefit amount will increase when you reach FRA.
Your earnings from work may also increase your monthly amount. Each year Social Security automatically reviews the records for everyone getting benefits who works. If your latest year of earnings are one of your highest years, Social Security will refigure your benefit and pay you any increase you are due.
To learn more, visit our Receiving Benefits While Working page.
