Q: My latest Social Security estimate pamphlet says the maximum monthly reduction for WEP in 2010 is $381. Does that mean I would take whatever amount they estimate my monthly amount will be and can count on having no more than $381 deducted from that amount for the WEP penalty?
A: The windfall elimination provision reduces but does not eliminate the Social Security benefit of anyone who receives an annuity from a retirement system where he didn’t pay Social Security taxes, such as CSRS, and has fewer than 30 years of substantial earnings under Social Security. To find out how the WEP might affect you, go to www.socialsecurity.gov/retire2/anyPiaWepjs04.htm.
