Quick Read
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In 2026, individuals who begin receiving Social Security benefits before reaching full retirement age are subject to an earnings limit of $24,480.
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For every $2 earned above this limit, $1 of benefits is withheld; the withheld amount is later credited back once full retirement age is reached.
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Retirees who attain full retirement age at any point during the calendar year have a higher limit of $65,160; for each $3 earned above this amount, $1 is withheld.
Many people assume that retirement means permanently leaving the workforce, which is understandable. However, there are numerous advantages to remaining employed after retirement.
Having additional earnings can be beneficial, especially for those who did not accumulate sufficient retirement savings and rely primarily on Social Security. Extra income can help cover living expenses more comfortably.
Even when financial need isn’t an issue, a part-time job can provide structure and the social interaction that many miss after leaving the workplace.
You may continue working while receiving Social Security benefits, but it’s important to be aware of the $24,480 earnings rule.
When you work while receiving Social Security
The Social Security Administration does not bar beneficiaries from employment. Once you reach full retirement age, you may earn unlimited income without any reduction in benefits. For example, a worker earning a $200,000 salary after reaching FRA will continue to receive full Social Security payments.
You may begin claiming benefits at age 62, but if you are employed before reaching full retirement age, you will be subject to the SSA’s earnings limit.
The numbers look different for some retirees
The $24,480 earnings limit applies only to beneficiaries who have not yet reached full retirement age and will not attain it by the end of the calendar year.
If you are already receiving benefits and will reach full retirement age later in the year—say, in November—you have a higher limit of $65,160. Earnings above this amount result in a $1 reduction for every $3 earned, which is less stringent than the rules for younger recipients.
Make sure you know the rules
Some critics argue that Social Security’s earnings rules discourage older workers from remaining employed, and there is some merit to that claim.
The rules are currently in effect and unlikely to change soon. Therefore, anyone considering early filing should ask whether they plan to continue working, and be aware that earnings could affect their benefit amounts.
It may be advantageous to delay filing until full retirement age, as this avoids benefit reductions and allows you to earn any amount without affecting your monthly Social Security payments.
