Q. I plan to begin collecting Social Security at age 66 in CSRS. I have met my 40 quarters and 30 substantial salary requirements. Additionally, I took a two-year break to work in the public sector. When I retire at age 69 with 40 years’ service and begin collecting my CSRS annuity, will I be able to collect Social Security?
A. Yes, you’ll be able to collect a Social Security benefit. However, because you have fewer than 30 years of coverage under Social Security (not “30 substantial salary requirements”), that benefit will be subject to the windfall elimination provision, which will reduce but not eliminate it.
