Social Security earnings test affects self-employment income
Darrell Croteau - Intelligent Solutions
VP of Sales | Intelligent Solutions | Founder, DCfinsrv | Board Member Support
The Social Security earnings test affects self-employment income in several important ways:
Net Earnings Consideration
For self-employed individuals, the Social Security Administration (SSA) counts only net earnings from self-employment when applying the earnings test[3]. This means that your gross income is not used; instead, the SSA looks at your profit after business expenses are deducted.
Hours Worked
The SSA also considers the number of hours worked in the business, particularly in the months before reaching full retirement age (FRA)[3]. This is to prevent self-employed individuals from manipulating their income recognition to avoid the earnings test.
Substantial Services Rule
Self-employed individuals are subject to a "substantial services" threshold:
- Working more than 45 hours per month in self-employment is generally considered substantial[2].
- For highly skilled occupations, working between 15 and 45 hours per month may be deemed substantial[8].
If you perform substantial services, your benefits may be reduced even if your net earnings are below the annual limit.
Monthly Earnings Limit
In 2023, if you're self-employed and haven't reached FRA, the monthly earnings limit is $1,770. If you'll reach FRA in 2023, the monthly limit increases to $4,710[8].
Reporting Requirements
Self-employed individuals should be proactive in reporting their expected earnings to the SSA:
- It's advisable to be upfront about your earnings to ensure correct application of the earnings test[2].
- You should report any changes in your expected earnings throughout the year.
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Benefit Reduction
If your net earnings exceed the annual limit:
- For those below FRA: $1 is withheld for every $2 earned above $23,400 (2025 limit)[6].
- In the year you reach FRA: $1 is withheld for every $3 earned above $62,160 (2025 limit), only counting earnings before the month you reach FRA[6].
Recalculation at Full Retirement Age
When you reach FRA, the SSA will recalculate your benefit amount, giving you credit for months when benefits were withheld due to the earnings test. This can result in a higher monthly benefit going forward[4].
Understanding these rules can help self-employed individuals better plan their work and benefit claiming strategies to maximize their Social Security benefits while continuing to earn income from their business.
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