Q. What is the earned income limit for self employed who receive social security (SS) benefits?
A. $23,400 per YEAR (not $1950 per month). There is no limit for the first year, if you had work part of the year before starting SS. There is also no limit once you reach full retirement age, 67 for most people.
If you are under full retirement age (FRA) and work while receiving Social Security retirement benefits, your benefits may be reduced if your earnings exceed certain yearly limits. In 2025, the annual earnings limit for those under full retirement age is $23,400. If you earn more than this, $1 will be deducted from your Social Security benefits for every $2 you earn above the limit. When you reach full retirement age, your benefits will no longer be reduced, regardless of your earnings.
The Full Retirement Age (FRA) for Social Security benefits is based on your birth year.
Full Retirement Age by Birth Year:
- Born 1960 or later: FRA is 67.
- Born 1955-1959: FRA is phased in between 66 and 67, depending on the specific birth year.
- Born 1943-1954: FRA is 66.
- Born before 1943: FRA is phased in between 65 and 66, depending on the specific birth year
