Is it possible to receive Social Security retirement payment if I am working in the US?
Can you work and receive Social Security benefits at the same time? Learn how earnings affect payments, income limits for 2025, and how to report changes.
Yes, you can receive Social Security retirement benefits while continuing to work in the United States. However, the amount you receive may be temporarily reduced if you have not yet reached your Full Retirement Age (FRA) and your earnings exceed specific limits. Understanding how these rules work can help you plan effectively and avoid surprises.
This article explains how working affects your Social Security benefits, the income thresholds to keep in mind, and what you need to report ensuring accurate payments.
How work can impact your Social Security Benefits?
If you are below your Full Retirement Age (FRA) and earn more than the annual earnings limit, your benefits may be reduced temporarily:
- If You’re Below FRA for the Entire Year:
In 2025, Social Security will deduct $1 from your benefits for every $2 you earn above $23,400. - If You Reach FRA in 2025:
For the months before you reach FRA, Social Security will deduct $1 for every $3 earned above $62,160. Once you reach FRA, there are no earnings limits, and your benefits will not be reduced regardless of how much you earn.
Earnings include wages from employment, net self-employment income, bonuses, commissions, and vacation pay. However, income from pensions, annuities, investments, or veteran benefits does not affect your Social Security benefits.
Can working increase my Social Security Benefits?
Yes, continuing to work while receiving benefits may result in a higher monthly benefit in the future. Social Security reviews your earnings record each year. If your recent earnings increase your average indexed monthly earnings (AIME), your benefit amount will be recalculated and adjusted upward.
If you are receiving benefits and anticipate a change in your earnings, you must report it to Social Security to ensure your payments are adjusted correctly.
- How to Report Changes:
Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or visit your local Social Security office. Online reporting for changes in earnings is not currently available.
Also, if you are working outside the United States, different rules may apply to your benefits. For details, visit the Social Security Office of Earnings & International Operations.
