Decision 2 · Week 2 · Wed Nov 11
Can I work and collect Social Security at the same time?
SHORT ANSWERYes. Before full retirement age, Social Security holds back some benefits if you earn more than a yearly limit. From the month you reach full retirement age, there is no limit.
For 2026 the limit is $24,480 a year. Above it, SSA withholds $1 for every $2 you earn. In the year you reach full retirement age, the limit is $65,160, counting only earnings before that month, and SSA withholds $1 for every $3 above it.
Withheld benefits are not simply lost. At full retirement age, SSA recalculates your monthly amount to credit the months it held back.
Work can also raise your benefit. If a new year of earnings is one of your highest, SSA recalculates your benefit upward.
Week 2 tests how much work, if any, makes your plan stronger.
Sources
- Receiving Benefits While Working · Social Security Administration
- Exempt Amounts Under the Earnings Test · Social Security Administration
Written and reviewed by Todd Allyn, Founding Director, Sovereo Intelligence
Facts checked Oct 6, 2026 · Next review by Nov 15, 2026
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