Can you work while retired on Social Security?
Mia Ramsey
Published May 13, 2026
You can get Social Security retirement or survivors benefits and work at the same time. But, if you’re younger than full retirement age, and earn more than certain amounts, your benefits will be reduced. Your benefit will increase at your full retirement age to account for benefits withheld due to earlier earnings.
Can you collect Social Security at 65 and still work part-time?
Yes, you can work and collect Social Security benefits at the same time. However, if you are younger than your full retirement age, part of your Social Security payments may be temporarily withheld if you earn too much.
Does working part-time affect Social Security?
How part-time work in retirement can affect Social Security taxes and Medicare costs. If you start taking Social Security before your full retirement age, earning more than $17,040 from work will reduce your benefits temporarily.
What if I want to work after retirement?
Once you reach full retirement age, you can work as much as you like without impacting your Social Security benefits. However, you should consult your tax adviser regarding the tax consequences of such work arrangements on your Social Security benefits.
Can I work part-time if I retire at 62?
Once you reach full retirement age, you can work as much as you like and receive your full Social Security benefits. If you’re 62 or older and below your full retirement age, you will have $1 withheld for every $2 you earn above the annual income threshold.
Can I work a full-time job after retirement?
Overview. After you retire, if you would like to return to permanent, part- or full-time employment for a CalPERS employer, you must apply for Reinstatement From Retirement. There are no restrictions on this type of employment.
What are the pros and cons of retiring?
Pros of retiring early include health benefits, opportunities to travel, or starting a new career or business venture. Cons of retiring early include the strain on savings, due to increased expenses and smaller Social Security benefits, and a depressing effect on mental health.
What happens to your Social Security benefits when you work part time?
Working during early retirement may lower your social security. If you plan on working part-time during early retirement your Social Security benefits may be reduced. The reduction is based on something called the Social Security earnings limit and it only applies if you have not yet reached full retirement age.
What should I know about social security before I retire?
Before you apply for retirement benefits, there are certain Social Security “basics” you should know about: Your “full retirement age” -. Depending on your date of birth, that may be between age 66 and 67. This could affect the amount of your benefits and when you want the benefits to start.
What happens if you go back to work after retirement?
“You just should know what to expect.” If you tap Social Security before your full retirement age (as defined by the government) and are still working or return to work, your wage income could reduce your benefits.
Do you have to stop working to collect Social Security?
There’s nothing implicit in the rules governing Social Security that says you must stop working once you decide to claim your benefits. But for many people — especially those who claim early benefits — becoming eligible for Social Security offers freedom to consider the option of early retirement.