Social Security earnings limit for 2027
In 2027 the Social Security earnings limit is $25,560 a year if you are under full retirement age all year, and $67,920 in the year you reach it. Above the limit, $1 of benefits is held back for every $2 you earn (or $1 for every $3 in the year you reach full retirement age).
Last updated: . Education, not financial advice.
2027 against 2026
| Limit | 2026 | 2027 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under full retirement age all year | $24,480 | $25,560 | $1,080 |
| Year you reach full retirement age | $65,160 | $67,920 | $2,760 |
Source: 2027 cost-of-living adjustment fact sheet (opens in a new tab), Retirement earnings test exempt amounts (opens in a new tab)
What is held back at each level
This table assumes a monthly benefit of $1,400 and a full year under full retirement age.
| Earnings for the year | Held back in 2026 | Held back in 2027 |
|---|---|---|
| $40,000 | $7,760 | $7,220 |
| $50,000 | $12,760 | $12,220 |
| $60,000 | $17,760 | $17,220 |
Source: Earnings limits while you work (opens in a new tab), Retirement earnings test exempt amounts (opens in a new tab)
The year you reach full retirement age
In that year only your earnings before the month you reach full retirement age count. With $80,000 of earnings before that month, $4,026 would be held back in 2027 and $4,946 under the 2026 limit.
Source: Earnings limits while you work (opens in a new tab), 2027 cost-of-living adjustment fact sheet (opens in a new tab)
What counts and what you get back
- The test counts wages and net earnings from self-employment. It does not count pensions, investment income or other benefits.
- From the month you reach full retirement age, there is no limit.
- Benefits held back are added back into your checks after you reach full retirement age, so the money is not lost for good.
Source: Earnings limits while you work (opens in a new tab)
Try your own numbers with the earnings test calculator.
Common questions
What is the 2027 Social Security earnings limit?
$25,560 if you are under full retirement age all of 2027, and $67,920 in the year you reach it.
Does the limit apply once I reach full retirement age?
No. From the month you reach full retirement age, you can earn any amount without a reduction.
Do I get the withheld money back?
Yes. Social Security adds the held-back months back to your benefit after you reach full retirement age.
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.