I only have 29 work credits. Should I create self-earned income to earn the 40 credits?
Full question: Hello. I am 48 years old. I currently only have 29 credits towards my benefits. I live overseas and have been filing my taxes using the foreign earned income exclusion so I almost never pay into the system. Is it in my best interests to create the minimum amount of self-earned income to…
Read MoreDo my future Social Security benefits decrease if my salary decreases?
Full question: I am 65 and pretty much retired since last year. Since my salary last year was very low $22,000 and have made much less this year I noticed my Social Security check diminished by $100 if I wait until I am 70 years old to draw. Will it continue to diminish if I…
Read MoreWill earned income impact my Social Security benefits?
Full question: I’m looking to publish my own book, but I’m concerned that if my sales will only be enough to negate my SSI, that I will be left destitute. My research says that royalties such as from book sales are not counted as income for SSI, but I find it prudent to seek outside…
Read MoreI am collecting retirement benefits. Do my benefits increase since I am still working and paying taxes?
Full question: Do my retirement benefits increase because I am still in the work force and therefore still paying taxes? I am 67 years old, receiving monthly Social Security benefits and still working. Hi there, This is a great question. If you have already begun receiving your Social Security benefits you may still increase your…
Read MoreI am 70 and still working. How much income can I earn while collecting benefits?
Full question: I am 70 years old and I am working how much can I make in 2022 and 2023? I will be applying for Social Security benefits this month. Hello, There are two earnings limits that retirees need to be aware of before collecting while continuing to work. The lower limit is $19,560 which…
Read MoreHow does earned income affect Social Security benefits?
Full question: I turn 62 in January 2023 and want to collect Social Security. I have earned $55,000 in 2022. How will that affect my benefit in 2023? Hello, If you have earnings in 2022, but do not file until 2023, your earnings for 2022 will not impact your benefits. However, if you decide to…
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