Social Security earnings test calculator
If you start benefits before full retirement age and keep working, Social Security holds back $1 of benefits for every $2 you earn above $25,560 in 2027. In the year you reach full retirement age the limit is $67,920, and $1 is held back for every $3 above it.
Last updated: . Education, not financial advice.
Worked example
This table assumes a monthly benefit of $1,400 and a full year before the year of full retirement age. It shows how much is held back for 2026 and 2027.
| Earnings for the year | Held back in 2026 | Held back in 2027 | Monthly checks held back in 2027 |
|---|---|---|---|
| $30,000 | $2,760 | $2,220 | 2 |
| $40,000 | $7,760 | $7,220 | 6 |
| $50,000 | $12,760 | $12,220 | 9 |
| $60,000 | $17,760 | $17,220 | 12 |
Source: Earnings limits while you work (opens in a new tab), Retirement earnings test exempt amounts (opens in a new tab), 2027 cost-of-living adjustment fact sheet (opens in a new tab)
Rules in plain words
- Before the year you reach full retirement age: $1 is held back for every $2 over $25,560 ($24,480 in 2026).
- In the year you reach full retirement age: $1 is held back for every $3 over $67,920 ($65,160 in 2026). Only earnings before the month you reach full retirement age count.
- From the month you reach full retirement age, there is no limit.
- Held-back benefits are not lost for good. Social Security adds them back into your checks after you reach full retirement age.
Source: Earnings limits while you work (opens in a new tab), Retirement earnings test exempt amounts (opens in a new tab)
Common questions
What is the 2027 earnings limit?
$25,560 a year if you are under full retirement age all year, and $67,920 in the year you reach it.
Do I lose the money that is held back?
No. Social Security recalculates your benefit at full retirement age and adds the held-back months back in.
Does the earnings test apply after full retirement age?
No. Once you reach full retirement age, you can earn any amount without a reduction.
Sources
- Earnings limits while you work (opens in a new tab)
- Retirement earnings test exempt amounts (opens in a new tab)
- 2027 cost-of-living adjustment fact sheet (opens in a new tab)
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Wait or Claim is independent. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by or connected to the Social Security Administration or any government agency. We give education, not financial, tax or legal advice. Check your own facts with Social Security (ssa.gov) before you file.