Working After Claiming Social Security? The Rule Most People Don't Understand.

Group 1 - Social Security typically replaces about 40% of wages for individuals earning an average paycheck, leading many to require additional income sources [1] - Individuals can work after claiming Social Security, but there are income limits that may affect benefits [1][5] - The earnings test applies to those who claim Social Security before reaching full retirement age, which is 67 for those born in 1960 or later [4][6] Group 2 - In 2026, individuals under full retirement age can earn up to $24,480, with $1 in benefits withheld for every $2 earned above this limit [7] - For those reaching full retirement age within the year, the earnings limit is $65,160, with $1 withheld for every $3 earned above this threshold [7] - The earnings test only applies to job income; withdrawals from an IRA do not affect Social Security benefits [8]