How Many Hours Can You Work While on Social Security?
Social Security is a crucial program that provides financial support to millions of Americans who are retired, disabled, or the surviving family members of deceased workers. However, many individuals who receive Social Security benefits are also employed, either part-time or full-time. The question often arises: How many hours can you work while on Social Security without affecting your benefits? In this article, we will explore the rules and limitations surrounding this topic.
Understanding the Work Limitations
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has specific rules regarding the number of hours you can work while receiving Social Security benefits. These rules vary depending on whether you are receiving retirement benefits, disability benefits, or survivor benefits.
Retirement Benefits
For individuals receiving retirement benefits, the SSA allows you to work without any restrictions until you reach your full retirement age (FRA). Once you reach your FRA, the SSA imposes a limit on the number of hours you can work without affecting your benefits. The limit is $18,960 per year, which translates to approximately $1,570 per month. If you earn more than this amount, the SSA will deduct $1 from your benefits for every $2 you earn over the limit.
Disability Benefits
For individuals receiving disability benefits, the SSA has a more stringent work limitation. The SSA defines “substantial gainful activity” (SGA) as engaging in work that earns more than $1,310 per month in 2023. If you earn more than this amount, your disability benefits may be suspended. However, if you earn less than $1,310 per month, you can continue to receive your disability benefits while working.
Survivor Benefits
Survivor benefits, which are paid to the surviving spouse or children of a deceased worker, also have specific work limitations. Similar to disability benefits, the SSA defines SGA as earning more than $1,310 per month in 2023. If you earn more than this amount, your survivor benefits may be suspended. However, if you earn less than $1,310 per month, you can continue to receive your survivor benefits while working.
Additional Considerations
It’s important to note that the SSA’s work limitations are not just based on the number of hours you work but also on the type of work you do. The SSA considers the nature of the work, your ability to perform the job, and your earning potential when determining whether your work is considered SGA.
Conclusion
Understanding how many hours you can work while on Social Security is essential for millions of Americans who receive these benefits. By following the SSA’s guidelines and staying within the allowable limits, you can continue to work and receive your Social Security benefits without any issues. Always consult with the SSA or a qualified financial advisor to ensure you are in compliance with the latest regulations and to maximize your benefits.
