Q: I’m a full-time CSRS employee with 33 years. Next year I will be 62 and have sufficient credits to qualify for a small Social Security payment because of prior years of nonfederal work. I understand WEP, my question is about getting Social Security benefits while continuing to working full time in $50,000 a year job as a CSRS employee. At age 62, can I receive both Social Security retirement payment and continue to work full time as a federal employee? Do I fall subject to the age 62 Social Security retirement $14,160 income limitations in this situation?
A: Yes, you would be subject to the Social Security earnings test, which is $14,640 in 2012. As a result, it might not make sense for you to apply for a Social Security benefit until your earnings from wages and self-employment fall below the earnings limit. However, once you reach your full retirement age, which is 66, the earnings limit would no longer apply. Then you would be able to receive both your salary and a Social Security benefit.
