Social Security sets $65,160 earnings limit for 2026 pre-retirement benefit reductions
Updated
Updated · savingadvice.com · Apr 28
Social Security sets $65,160 earnings limit for 2026 pre-retirement benefit reductions
4 articles · Updated · savingadvice.com · Apr 28
The 2026 threshold applies to those reaching full retirement age that year, with benefits reduced by $1 for every $3 earned above $65,160 before the month full retirement age is reached.
Once full retirement age is attained, the earnings limit is removed and withheld benefits are recalculated, potentially increasing future monthly payments for retirees who exceeded the threshold.
Only earned income counts toward the limit, not pensions or investment income. Previous years’ lower thresholds and stricter reduction formulas affected early retirees, but the rules change significantly at full retirement age.
How could repealing the Social Security earnings test reshape retirement for working Americans?
Social Security withholds benefits if you work. Do you ever actually get that money back?
With a 23% benefit cut looming, is claiming Social Security early now the smarter move?
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Why was the controversial Social Security 'retirement earnings test' created in the first place?
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