Q. As a CSRS offset annuitant I worked for the government from 1968-1985, at which time the agency was abolished and I withdrew my retirement in a lump sum. I worked in the private sector for five years and returned to the government in 1990. In 2001 there was a reduction in force and I now receive discontinued service retirement. Overall, I have 22 years of Social Security, 12 of those under CSRS offset.
My first question: Will I be subject to the windfall elimination provision at age 62? Second, will I have the option of leaving my private-sector years of earned Social Security with the administration until I reach the full Social Security age of 66 or will this also be issued at age 62?
A. At age 62, your annuity will be offset by the amount of Social Security benefit you earned while covered by CSRS offset. The reduction will be automatic, whether or not you apply for a Social Security benefit. You will also be subject to the windfall elimination provision when you do apply for a Social Security benefit if you have fewer than 30 years of substantial earnings under Social Security.
