Q. When determining the number of substantial years of contribution for Social Security purposes, is it when one actually enrolls for benefits or when one is eligible for benefits? I will be subject to the windfall elimination provision due to a small pension from CSRS. At age 62, I will have 28 years of substantial contributions. If I wait until my full retirement age, I will have 34 years of substantial contributions. Will there be any reduction of Social Security benefits?
A. You’ll be subject to the WEP at age 62, whether you are working or not.
