"The earnings test does not apply to you if you've reached FRA. At that point, you can earn any amount of money without losing benefits."
"In 2026, you can earn up to $24,480 without risking withheld benefits. But beyond that level of earnings, you'll have $1 in Social Security withheld for every $2 you earn."
"Benefits that are withheld under the earnings test are not lost forever. You can expect to get the money back in the form of larger monthly checks once you reach FRA."
The average monthly Social Security benefit is approximately $2,076, which may not be sufficient for many retirees. To maintain financial stability, retirees might need to work part-time. However, working while collecting Social Security can affect monthly benefits due to the earnings test. Before reaching full retirement age, earnings above certain thresholds can lead to temporary reductions in benefits. Once full retirement age is reached, there are no earnings limits, and withheld benefits can be recovered later.
Read at 24/7 Wall St.
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