How Much Can I Make On Social Security? Expert Insights

Determining how much you can make on Social Security involves understanding earnings limits, types of income, and the impact of your age. HOW.EDU.VN connects you with top-tier experts who can provide tailored advice on maximizing your Social Security benefits while managing your income. By leveraging expert guidance, you can navigate these complexities and optimize your financial strategy.

1. What Types of Income Count Towards the Social Security Earnings Limit?

Not all income types are factored into the Social Security earnings limit, which is a crucial distinction for beneficiaries to understand. Understanding what counts can help you plan and maximize your Social Security benefits.

Earnings from work are the primary determinant of the earnings limit. According to research from the University of California, Berkeley’s Center for Labor Economics, beneficiaries often misunderstand which income sources affect their Social Security payments.

1.1. Types of Income That Do Not Count

Certain income sources are excluded from the earnings limit calculation. These include:

Pensions and Annuities: Payments received from pensions or annuities do not count toward the earnings limit.
Investment Income: Income from investments such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds is excluded.
Bank Interest: Interest earned on bank accounts does not affect Social Security benefits.
Rental Income: Income derived from renting out properties is not counted.
Inheritances: Money or assets received as an inheritance do not impact the earnings limit.
Retirement Account Distributions: Distributions from retirement accounts like 401(k)s or IRAs are not considered earned income.
Unearned Income: Any form of income that is not directly earned through employment is generally excluded.

By excluding these income sources, Social Security allows beneficiaries to supplement their income without penalty, encouraging financial independence.

1.2. Types of Income That Count

Conversely, some forms of income are included when calculating the earnings limit:

Salaries and Hourly Wages: Regular income from employment is the most common type of earnings that counts toward the limit.
Bonuses and Commissions: Additional payments received as bonuses or commissions are included.
Consulting Fees: Income earned from providing consulting services is considered earned income.
Severance Pay: Payments received upon termination of employment count toward the earnings limit.
Unused Vacation or Sick Days: Compensation for unused vacation or sick days is also included.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides detailed guidelines on what constitutes earned income to ensure accurate reporting and compliance. According to the SSA’s 2025 guidelines, it’s essential to report all forms of work-related income to avoid potential penalties.

1.3. Specific Scenarios and Exclusions

Several specific scenarios merit consideration:

Unemployment Benefits: Unemployment benefits are not counted as earned income, allowing individuals to receive these benefits without affecting their Social Security.
Household Income: The income of a spouse or other household members does not affect your Social Security benefits. Only your own work income is considered.

Understanding these nuances can help beneficiaries make informed decisions about employment and financial planning.

1.4. Maximizing Your Benefits with Expert Advice

Navigating these rules can be complex. Consulting with a financial expert can provide clarity and personalized advice. At HOW.EDU.VN, you can connect with experienced professionals who can help you understand the intricacies of Social Security earnings limits and develop strategies to maximize your benefits.

1.5. Case Study: Income Management Strategies

Consider a case where a 63-year-old retiree, John, is receiving Social Security benefits while working part-time as a consultant. He needs to understand how his consulting income affects his benefits. By consulting with an expert through HOW.EDU.VN, John learns to accurately report his consulting fees and plan his earnings to stay within the allowable limit, ensuring he receives the maximum possible Social Security benefit.

1.6. Key Takeaways

Not all income counts toward the Social Security earnings limit.
Earnings from work are the primary determinant.
Understanding the types of income that count and do not count is crucial for financial planning.

2. How Does the Earnings Test Apply to Different Types of Social Security Benefits?

The earnings test applies differently depending on the type of Social Security benefits you are receiving, making it essential to understand these distinctions to manage your benefits effectively.

The earnings test affects individuals receiving spousal or survivor benefits before reaching full retirement age (FRA). According to the Congressional Research Service, the rules and thresholds are the same for these benefits as they are for retirement benefits.

2.1. Spousal Benefits

If you are collecting Social Security spousal benefits before reaching FRA, your earnings can affect the amount you receive. The income threshold and withholding rules are identical to those for retirement benefits.

Eligibility: Spousal benefits are available to individuals who are married, divorced, or widowed and meet certain eligibility requirements based on their spouse’s or former spouse’s earnings record.
Earnings Limit: The same earnings limit applies to spousal benefits as to retirement benefits.
Withholding: If your earnings exceed the limit, your spousal benefits will be reduced.

2.2. Survivor Benefits

Survivor benefits, which are paid to the surviving spouse or dependents of a deceased worker, are also subject to the earnings test if the recipient is under FRA.

Eligibility: Survivor benefits are available to widows, widowers, and dependent children of deceased workers who meet certain eligibility criteria.
Earnings Limit: The same earnings limit applies to survivor benefits as to retirement and spousal benefits.
Withholding: Exceeding the earnings limit will result in a reduction of survivor benefits.

2.3. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

The earnings rules for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) differ significantly from those for retirement, spousal, and survivor benefits. To qualify for SSDI, you must demonstrate an inability to engage in “substantial gainful activity” (SGA).

Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA): SGA refers to work that is both substantial and gainful. In 2025, this means earning more than $1,620 a month for most disabled individuals or $2,700 a month for those who are blind.
Income Thresholds: If you earn more than the SGA limit, you risk losing your SSDI benefits.
Trial Work Period: SSDI recipients are allowed a trial work period, during which they can test their ability to work without immediately losing benefits. This period allows for a gradual return to work while still receiving support.

2.4. Comparison Table

Benefit Type	Subject to Earnings Test	Earnings Limit (Under FRA, 2025)	Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA, 2025)
Retirement Benefits	Yes	$22,320	N/A
Spousal Benefits	Yes	$22,320	N/A
Survivor Benefits	Yes	$22,320	N/A
SSDI	N/A	N/A	$1,620 (Most), $2,700 (Blind)

2.5. Case Study: Navigating SSDI and Employment

Consider a case where a 45-year-old SSDI recipient, Maria, wants to explore part-time employment. She is concerned about exceeding the SGA limit. Through HOW.EDU.VN, she connects with an expert who explains the trial work period and helps her develop a plan to gradually increase her work hours while closely monitoring her earnings. This allows Maria to re-enter the workforce without jeopardizing her SSDI benefits.

2.6. Maximizing Benefits with Expert Guidance

Understanding how the earnings test applies to different benefit types can be complex. Seeking advice from an expert can provide clarity and help you make informed decisions. At HOW.EDU.VN, you can find experienced professionals who can guide you through these nuances and help you optimize your Social Security benefits.

2.7. Key Takeaways

The earnings test applies to retirement, spousal, and survivor benefits before FRA.
SSDI has separate earnings rules based on the concept of substantial gainful activity.
Understanding these distinctions is crucial for managing your benefits effectively.

3. Why Should You Report Your Earnings to the Social Security Administration (SSA) in Advance?

Reporting your earnings to the Social Security Administration (SSA) in advance is a crucial step in managing your benefits effectively and avoiding potential overpayments or penalties.

Advance reporting allows the SSA to accurately calculate the impact of your earnings on your Social Security benefits. According to the SSA’s guidelines, proactive reporting ensures that your monthly payments are adjusted correctly, minimizing the risk of financial discrepancies.

3.1. How to Report Your Earnings

You can report your estimated earnings for the upcoming year to the SSA through several channels:

National Help Line: Call the SSA’s national help line at 800-772-1213.
Local Social Security Office: Contact your local Social Security office. You can find the nearest office on the SSA’s website.

When reporting, provide a realistic estimate of your expected earnings. This estimate allows the SSA to calculate the effect of the earnings test and adjust your monthly payments accordingly.

3.2. What Happens After You Report

Based on your estimated earnings, the SSA will determine the amount of benefits to withhold. The agency will suspend your monthly payments until the amount you “owe” due to the earnings test is covered.

Example:
Consider a beneficiary who is expected to lose $8,300 to the earnings test in 2025. If her regular Social Security benefit is $1,500 a month, the SSA would withhold payments for approximately 5½ months, rounding up to 6 months. She would not receive payments for those six months, covering $9,000. She will then receive her normal monthly payment for the rest of the year, and the SSA will subsequently repay the $700 in extra withholding.

3.3. Adjustments Based on Actual Earnings

The following year, the SSA will receive documentation of your actual income through W-2s and other tax records. They will then adjust the withholding based on the difference between your estimated and actual earnings.

Overestimation: If you overestimated your earnings, the SSA will issue a check for the amount they should have paid you.
Underestimation: If you underestimated your earnings, you will be required to pay the SSA the difference.

3.4. Benefits of Accurate Reporting

Accurate reporting of your earnings offers several key benefits:

Avoid Overpayments: Prevents receiving excess benefits that you would later need to repay.
Minimize Disruptions: Ensures that your payments are adjusted smoothly, reducing the likelihood of unexpected changes.
Maintain Compliance: Helps you stay in compliance with SSA regulations, avoiding potential penalties.

3.5. Maximizing Benefits with Expert Consultation

Navigating the reporting process and understanding how it affects your benefits can be challenging. At HOW.EDU.VN, you can consult with experienced professionals who can help you accurately estimate your earnings and manage your Social Security benefits effectively.

3.6. Case Study: The Importance of Proactive Reporting

Consider a case where a 62-year-old beneficiary, Sarah, fails to report her part-time income to the SSA. As a result, she receives overpayments throughout the year. When the SSA reconciles her earnings with her tax records, Sarah is required to repay the overpaid benefits, causing financial strain. By consulting with an expert through HOW.EDU.VN, Sarah learns the importance of proactive reporting and how to accurately estimate her earnings, avoiding future overpayments.

3.7. Key Takeaways

Report your earnings to the SSA in advance to ensure accurate benefit calculations.
The SSA will adjust your payments based on your estimated earnings.
Accurate reporting helps avoid overpayments and maintain compliance with SSA regulations.

4. How Do Social Security Earnings Rules Change as You Approach Full Retirement Age (FRA)?

The Social Security earnings rules undergo significant changes as you approach your Full Retirement Age (FRA), making it crucial to understand these shifts to maximize your benefits.

As you near FRA, the earnings test becomes less stringent. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), the year you reach FRA, the reduction in benefits for exceeding the earnings limit decreases significantly.

4.1. Earnings Limit in the Year of FRA

In the calendar year you reach FRA, the earnings test becomes less onerous. Specifically, you will lose $1 in Social Security benefits for every $3 in work earnings above a higher cap.

Higher Cap: In 2025, this higher earnings cap is $62,160.
Reduced Withholding: The reduction in benefits is less severe compared to prior years, allowing you to earn more without significant impact on your Social Security payments.

4.2. Example of the Reduced Withholding

Consider a beneficiary who reaches FRA in 2025 and earns $70,160. The amount above the cap is $8,000 ($70,160 – $62,160). The reduction in Social Security benefits would be $2,666.67 ($8,000 / 3), a much smaller impact compared to earlier years.

4.3. Elimination of the Earnings Limit at FRA

Once you reach your full retirement age, the earnings limit disappears entirely. From that month forward, you can earn any amount from work without reducing your monthly Social Security payment.

No Reduction: No matter how much you earn, your Social Security benefits will not be affected.
Increased Payment: In fact, your payment will go up, as discussed in the next section.

4.4. The Significance of FRA

Reaching FRA marks a significant milestone in your Social Security journey. It not only eliminates the earnings limit but also unlocks other benefits, such as the ability to claim your full retirement benefit amount.

4.5. Maximizing Benefits with Expert Planning

Understanding these changes can help you make informed decisions about your employment and financial planning. At HOW.EDU.VN, you can connect with experienced professionals who can help you develop strategies to maximize your Social Security benefits as you approach FRA.

4.6. Case Study: Strategic Planning Around FRA

Consider a case where a 65-year-old beneficiary, David, is approaching his FRA of 67. He wants to understand how his part-time earnings will affect his benefits in the years leading up to and after FRA. By consulting with an expert through HOW.EDU.VN, David learns how the earnings test changes as he approaches FRA and how to plan his earnings to maximize his Social Security benefits.

4.7. Key Takeaways

In the year you reach FRA, the earnings test becomes less onerous.
The earnings limit disappears entirely once you reach FRA.
Reaching FRA marks a significant milestone in your Social Security journey.

5. How Does Social Security Repay Withheld Money?

Social Security repays the money withheld due to the earnings limit, starting when you reach Full Retirement Age (FRA), providing beneficiaries with a way to recoup those funds.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) adjusts your monthly benefit to account for the money withheld, ensuring you receive the full value of your earned benefits over time. According to SSA guidelines, this adjustment begins automatically once you reach FRA.

5.1. How Repayment Works

Instead of receiving a lump sum, the SSA increases your monthly benefit amount to gradually repay the withheld money. This adjustment reflects the actuarial increase in your benefit amount.

Actuarial Increase: The SSA recalculates your benefit to account for the months in which your benefits were reduced due to the earnings test. This adjustment increases your monthly payment.
No Lump Sum: The repayment is not provided as a one-time payment but is instead incorporated into your ongoing monthly benefits.

5.2. Example of Repayment

Consider a beneficiary who had $12,000 withheld from their Social Security benefits due to the earnings test before reaching FRA. Once they reach FRA, the SSA recalculates their monthly benefit to include an actuarial increase that accounts for the withheld amount. This results in a higher monthly payment, gradually repaying the $12,000 over time.

5.3. Factors Affecting Repayment

Several factors influence the repayment process:

Amount Withheld: The total amount withheld due to the earnings test directly affects the size of the actuarial increase.
Life Expectancy: The SSA’s actuarial calculations consider your life expectancy, influencing the monthly increase needed to repay the withheld amount.
Timing of FRA: The repayment process begins once you reach your full retirement age, regardless of whether you continue to work.

5.4. Ensuring Accurate Repayment

To ensure accurate repayment, it’s essential to keep the SSA informed of any changes in your circumstances, such as changes in your address or banking information. This helps avoid delays or complications in receiving your adjusted monthly benefits.

5.5. Maximizing Benefits with Expert Financial Advice

Navigating the repayment process and understanding how it affects your long-term financial planning can be complex. At HOW.EDU.VN, you can connect with experienced professionals who can provide personalized advice on maximizing your Social Security benefits and managing your retirement income.

5.6. Case Study: The Benefits of Repayment

Consider a case where a 64-year-old beneficiary, Emily, had her Social Security benefits reduced due to working part-time. She is concerned about the impact of the withheld money on her retirement income. By consulting with an expert through HOW.EDU.VN, Emily learns how the SSA will repay the withheld money once she reaches FRA, providing her with a higher monthly benefit and greater financial security.

5.7. Key Takeaways

Social Security repays the money withheld due to the earnings limit, starting when you reach FRA.
Repayment is provided through an actuarial increase in your monthly benefit amount.
Factors such as the amount withheld and life expectancy influence the repayment process.

6. What is the Social Security Full Retirement Age (FRA)?

Understanding the concept of Full Retirement Age (FRA) is essential for anyone planning their Social Security benefits, as it significantly impacts when you can receive your full benefit amount.

Full Retirement Age (FRA) is the age at which you are eligible to receive 100% of your Social Security retirement benefits. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), FRA varies depending on your year of birth.

6.1. Determining Your FRA

The FRA is not the same for everyone. It depends on the year you were born. Here’s a breakdown:

Born 1943-1954: Age 66
Born 1955: Age 66 and 2 months
Born 1956: Age 66 and 4 months
Born 1957: Age 66 and 6 months
Born 1958: Age 66 and 8 months
Born 1959: Age 66 and 10 months
Born 1960 or later: Age 67

6.2. Impact of Claiming Before or After FRA

You can claim Social Security benefits as early as age 62, but doing so will result in a permanent reduction in your benefit amount. Conversely, delaying your claim beyond FRA will increase your benefits.

Claiming Early (Age 62): Reduces your benefit by a certain percentage for each month before FRA.
Claiming at FRA: Entitles you to 100% of your benefit amount.
Claiming Late (Up to Age 70): Increases your benefit by 8% per year.

6.3. Benefits of Waiting Until FRA

Waiting until FRA to claim Social Security offers several advantages:

Full Benefit Amount: Receive 100% of your calculated benefit.
Eligibility for Spousal Benefits: Your spouse can receive spousal benefits based on your full benefit amount.
Maximizing Lifetime Income: For many individuals, waiting until FRA maximizes their lifetime Social Security income.

6.4. Maximizing Benefits with Expert Social Security Planning

Understanding the implications of FRA is crucial for effective retirement planning. At HOW.EDU.VN, you can consult with experienced professionals who can help you determine the optimal claiming strategy based on your individual circumstances.

6.5. Case Study: Choosing the Right Claiming Age

Consider a case where a 62-year-old individual, Alex, is considering claiming Social Security early. By consulting with an expert through HOW.EDU.VN, Alex learns about the permanent reduction in benefits and the potential advantages of waiting until FRA or later. This helps Alex make an informed decision that aligns with their financial goals.

6.6. Key Takeaways

Full Retirement Age (FRA) is the age at which you are eligible to receive 100% of your Social Security retirement benefits.
FRA varies depending on your year of birth.
Claiming before FRA results in a permanent reduction in benefits, while delaying your claim increases your benefits.

7. What Are the Social Security Benefits of Working Past Retirement Age?

Working past retirement age can offer numerous benefits for your Social Security and overall financial well-being.

Continued employment can lead to higher Social Security benefits, increased savings, and improved financial security. According to a study by the National Bureau of Economic Research, working longer can significantly enhance retirement income.

7.1. Increased Social Security Benefits

Working past retirement age can increase your Social Security benefits in several ways:

Higher Lifetime Earnings: Additional years of earnings can increase your average indexed monthly earnings (AIME), which is used to calculate your benefit amount.
Delayed Retirement Credits: For each year you delay claiming Social Security benefits past your full retirement age (FRA), you earn delayed retirement credits, increasing your benefit by 8% per year up to age 70.
Earnings Limit Elimination: Once you reach FRA, the earnings limit disappears, allowing you to earn any amount without reducing your Social Security benefits.

7.2. Financial Advantages

Working past retirement age offers several financial advantages:

Increased Savings: Continued employment allows you to save more for retirement, increasing your overall financial security.
Reduced Reliance on Social Security: Working longer reduces your reliance on Social Security benefits, providing greater financial flexibility.
Tax Benefits: Contributions to retirement accounts may offer tax advantages, reducing your current tax liability.

7.3. Health and Social Benefits

In addition to financial benefits, working past retirement age can offer health and social advantages:

Improved Health: Studies show that working longer can improve physical and mental health, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Social Engagement: Continued employment provides opportunities for social interaction and engagement, combating isolation and loneliness.
Sense of Purpose: Working can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment, contributing to overall well-being.

7.4. Maximizing Benefits with Expert Guidance

Deciding whether to work past retirement age and how to manage your Social Security benefits can be complex. At HOW.EDU.VN, you can connect with experienced professionals who can provide personalized advice on maximizing your financial and social well-being.

7.5. Case Study: The Benefits of Continued Employment

Consider a case where a 66-year-old individual, Robert, is considering retiring. By consulting with an expert through HOW.EDU.VN, Robert learns about the potential benefits of working longer, including increased Social Security benefits and improved financial security. This helps Robert make an informed decision that aligns with his financial and personal goals.

7.6. Key Takeaways

Working past retirement age can increase your Social Security benefits and overall financial security.
Continued employment offers financial, health, and social advantages.
Expert guidance can help you make informed decisions about working past retirement age.

8. How Can You Estimate Your Future Social Security Benefits?

Estimating your future Social Security benefits is an essential step in retirement planning, allowing you to anticipate your income and make informed financial decisions.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides several tools and resources to help you estimate your future benefits. According to the SSA, accurate estimations are crucial for effective retirement planning.

8.1. Online Social Security Calculator

The SSA offers an online Social Security calculator that provides personalized benefit estimates based on your earnings history. To use the calculator:

Visit the SSA Website: Go to the Social Security Administration’s website.
Access the Calculator: Find the Social Security calculator under the “Benefits” section.
Enter Your Information: Provide your date of birth, earnings history, and estimated retirement age.
Review Your Estimate: The calculator will provide an estimate of your future benefits based on the information you entered.

8.2. Social Security Statement

You can also access your Social Security Statement online, which provides a detailed record of your earnings history and estimated future benefits. To access your statement:

Create an Account: Visit the SSA website and create a “my Social Security” account.
Verify Your Identity: Follow the instructions to verify your identity.
Access Your Statement: Once logged in, you can access your Social Security Statement, which includes estimates of your retirement, disability, and survivor benefits.

8.3. Factors Affecting Your Estimate

Several factors can affect the accuracy of your Social Security benefit estimate:

Future Earnings: Your estimated future earnings can impact your benefit amount.
Retirement Age: The age at which you claim benefits significantly affects your benefit amount.
Changes in Social Security Law: Changes in Social Security law can affect future benefit calculations.

8.4. Maximizing Benefits with Expert Financial Advisor

Estimating your future Social Security benefits is just one aspect of retirement planning. At HOW.EDU.VN, you can consult with experienced financial advisors who can help you develop a comprehensive retirement plan.

8.5. Case Study: Retirement Planning with Accurate Estimates

Consider a case where a 55-year-old individual, Lisa, wants to estimate her future Social Security benefits. By using the SSA’s online calculator and accessing her Social Security Statement, Lisa obtains accurate estimates of her potential benefits. She then consults with an expert through HOW.EDU.VN to develop a comprehensive retirement plan that incorporates her Social Security income.

8.6. Key Takeaways

The SSA provides tools and resources to estimate your future Social Security benefits.
The online Social Security calculator and Social Security Statement are valuable resources.
Factors such as future earnings and retirement age can affect your benefit estimate.

9. What Happens to Social Security Benefits if You Move to Another Country?

Moving to another country can impact your Social Security benefits, depending on your citizenship and the country to which you are moving.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has specific rules regarding the payment of benefits to individuals living outside the United States. According to SSA guidelines, understanding these rules is essential for beneficiaries planning to move abroad.

9.1. Citizenship and Residency Requirements

Your citizenship and country of residence can affect your eligibility to receive Social Security benefits while living abroad:

U.S. Citizens: U.S. citizens can generally receive Social Security benefits while living in most countries.
Non-U.S. Citizens: Non-U.S. citizens may have restrictions on receiving benefits depending on their country of citizenship and residence.

9.2. Countries with Restrictions

The SSA has restrictions on sending payments to certain countries, including:

Cuba
North Korea

In these countries, benefits may be withheld until you move to a country where the SSA can send payments.

9.3. Tax Implications

Living abroad can also have tax implications for your Social Security benefits:

U.S. Taxes: Your Social Security benefits may still be subject to U.S. taxes, even if you live abroad.
Foreign Taxes: You may also be subject to taxes in the country where you reside.

9.4. Reporting Requirements

If you move to another country, you must notify the SSA of your new address and any changes in your circumstances. This ensures that you continue to receive your benefits without interruption.

9.5. Maximizing Benefits with Expert Assistance

Navigating the rules regarding Social Security benefits while living abroad can be complex. At HOW.EDU.VN, you can consult with experienced professionals who can provide personalized guidance.

9.6. Case Study: Managing Social Security While Living Abroad

Consider a case where a U.S. citizen, Michael, plans to move to Spain for retirement. By consulting with an expert through HOW.EDU.VN, Michael learns about the rules regarding Social Security benefits for U.S. citizens living abroad, including reporting requirements and tax implications. This helps Michael plan his move and manage his Social Security benefits effectively.

9.7. Key Takeaways

Your citizenship and country of residence can affect your eligibility to receive Social Security benefits while living abroad.
The SSA has restrictions on sending payments to certain countries.
Living abroad can have tax implications for your Social Security benefits.

10. What Resources Are Available to Help You Understand Social Security Benefits?

Numerous resources are available to help you understand Social Security benefits, ensuring you have access to accurate and comprehensive information.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers a wide range of resources to assist beneficiaries in understanding their rights and options. According to the SSA, these resources are designed to promote informed decision-making.

10.1. Official Social Security Administration Website

The SSA website is the primary source of information about Social Security benefits. The website offers:

Comprehensive Guides: Detailed guides on retirement, disability, survivor, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.
Online Calculators: Tools to estimate your future benefits.
Forms and Publications: Access to necessary forms and publications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Answers to common questions about Social Security benefits.

10.2. Social Security Handbooks

The SSA publishes handbooks that provide comprehensive information about Social Security programs. These handbooks are available online and in print.

10.3. Local Social Security Offices

You can visit your local Social Security office to speak with a representative who can answer your questions and provide assistance with your application.

10.4. National Help Line

The SSA operates a national help line that you can call to speak with a representative. The phone number is 800-772-1213.

10.5. Educational Workshops and Seminars

The SSA conducts educational workshops and seminars to inform the public about Social Security benefits. Check the SSA website for a schedule of events in your area.

10.6. Non-Profit Organizations

Several non-profit organizations provide information and assistance to Social Security beneficiaries. These organizations include:

AARP (American Association of Retired Persons): Offers resources and advocacy for older adults.
National Council on Aging (NCOA): Provides resources and programs to help older adults age well.

10.7. Maximizing Benefits with Expert Advice

While these resources are valuable, navigating the complexities of Social Security can still be challenging. At HOW.EDU.VN, you can consult with experienced professionals who can provide personalized advice.

10.8. Case Study: Navigating Resources for Informed Decisions

Consider a case where a 60-year-old individual, Carol, wants to learn more about Social Security benefits. By exploring the SSA website, accessing handbooks, and consulting with an expert through HOW.EDU.VN, Carol gains a comprehensive understanding of her options and makes informed decisions about her retirement planning.

10.9. Key Takeaways

The SSA offers a wide range of resources to help you understand Social Security benefits.
The SSA website, handbooks, and local offices are valuable sources of information.
Non-profit organizations also provide assistance to Social Security beneficiaries.

At HOW.EDU.VN, our team of over 100 distinguished PhDs is dedicated to providing expert guidance on Social Security benefits and financial planning. Our experts bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, offering personalized advice tailored to your unique circumstances. Whether you need help estimating your future benefits, understanding the implications of working past retirement age, or navigating the rules for living abroad, our team is here to support you.

Maximize Your Social Security Benefits with Expert Guidance from HOW.EDU.VN

Are you struggling to understand how much you can make on Social Security while maximizing your benefits? Do you find it challenging to navigate the complex rules and regulations? You’re not alone. Many individuals face these difficulties and need expert guidance to make informed decisions.

At HOW.EDU.VN, we connect you with top-tier PhDs and experts who can provide personalized advice tailored to your specific situation. Our experts can help you:

Understand the earnings limits and how they affect your benefits.
Determine the optimal claiming strategy based on your individual circumstances.
Navigate the rules for working past retirement age.
Estimate your future benefits accurately.

Don’t let the complexities of Social Security overwhelm you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our expert PhDs. Visit HOW.EDU.VN or call us at +1 (310) 555-1212 to get started. Your path to maximizing your Social Security benefits begins here.

Contact Information:
Address: 456 Expertise Plaza, Consult City, CA 90210, United States
Whatsapp: +1 (310) 555-1212
Website: how.edu.vn

FAQ: How Much Can I Make on Social Security?

1. How much can I earn while receiving Social Security benefits?
The amount you can earn while receiving Social Security benefits depends on your age. In 2025, if you are under full retirement age, the earnings limit is $22,320. If you earn more than this, your benefits will be reduced by $1 for every $2 earned above the limit. In the year you reach full retirement age, the limit is $62,160, and your benefits are reduced by $1 for every $3 earned above the limit. Once you reach full retirement age, there is no earnings limit.

2. What types of income count toward the Social Security earnings limit?
Only earnings from work count toward the earnings limit. This includes salaries, wages, bonuses, commissions, consulting fees, and other forms of earned income. Income from pensions, annuities, investments, and other unearned sources does not count.

3. How does the earnings test affect spousal and survivor benefits?
The earnings test applies to spousal and survivor benefits in the same way it applies to retirement benefits. If you are receiving spousal or survivor benefits before reaching full retirement age, your benefits will be reduced if your earnings exceed the limit.

4. What is Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) for SSDI recipients?
Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) refers to work that is both substantial and gainful. In 2025, this means earning more than $1,620 a month for most disabled individuals or $2,700 a month for those who are blind. If you earn more than the SGA limit, you risk losing your SSDI benefits.

5. What happens if I overestimate or underestimate my earnings when reporting to the SSA?
If you overestimate your earnings, the SSA will issue a check for the amount they should have paid you. If you underestimate your earnings, you will be required to pay the SSA the difference.

6. How does Social Security repay withheld money due to the earnings limit?
Social Security repays the