Social Security benefits

[rafavalen]

Has anyone out there already gone through this situation? I am seriously considering applying for early SS benefits, but holding back because of possible restrictions on the number of hours that I would be allowed to work, living abroad as we all do. Would anyone care to share their experience in this regard? Dealing with the SSA could be quite a daunting task, and I am looking for all the guidance I can get before I take that giant leap. Thanks.

[Doyle Phillips]

About 10 years ago i retired at the earliest possible, age 62. I'm sure you know that the earlier you retire with SS the less will be the amount of your monthly check. Depending on your age you can earn up to $15,120 with minor "penalties".

"If your are [undefined=undefined]younger than full retirement age[/undefined], there is a limit to how much you can earn and still receive full Social Security benefits. If you are younger than full retirement age during all of 2013, we must deduct $1 from your benefits for each $2 you earned above $15,120." more at
http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10069.pdf

[roberb7]

I also retired at the age of 62, and that was 16 months ago.

I didn't find dealing with the SSA at all daunting. Although their stated policy is that I would have to show up in person at the SSA office in Bellingham, WA (I was living in Vancouver at the time), they told me that the interview could be done over the phone instead.

Because I do a small amount of paid work, there's form I have to fill out and mail in every six months. The limit (if you live outside the US) is based on hours, not the amount of money, and the number of hours is 45 per month. I don't have to send in this form after I turn 66.

[peddler665]

I must report that I have always been treated with respect & kindness in my dealings with Social Security. Seems to be one of the better run departments of the US Government.