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Question

Re: Social Security Benefits Background I retired early (after 30 years service) for health reasons and over the years paid the SS administration the maximum amount for over 30 years. I did not go on any type assistance program (although as an afterthought I should have) but rather started a business. The business barley covers basic expenses and no salary has been acquired. After several years the SS statements indicated a reduction in benefits. I called and eas told I am not contributing so the benefits decrease. I tried to explain that I could not take advantage of my benefits due to my age and, although working, not making anything so I could contribute. I am now 62 and ready to take the benefits. Question Is there anything I can do to have the benefits equal what I really deserve with maximum contributions for over 30 years? Thank you. Ted Gitzke 43 River Bend Road Clinton, NJ 08809 XXX-XXX-XXXX XXXXX@XXXXXX.XXX

Submitted: 49 days and 9 hours ago.
Category: Tax
Value: $30
Status: CLOSED
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State/Country relating to question: United States

Already Tried:
I have called the SS Administration several times and when I did finally get to talk with a human it was short and simple. You aren't contributing so we decrease the benefits.

Posted by Bill 49 days and 8 hours ago.

Answer

The SS statements project your benefits based on your earnings record up to the year that the statement is provided and also assumes that your earnings will continue at the same level until age 62. So if your earnings drop in future years then your projected benefit will be reduced as your benefit is based on your average indexed monthly earnings over your 35 highest years of earnings.

49 days and 8 hours ago.

Reply

Is there anything I can do to rectify the situation. I.e. Pay the contribution for the years since I took early retirement, became self employed, to the present?

Posted by Bill 49 days and 8 hours ago.

Answer

Unfortunately, if you didn't actually have earnings subject to SS in those years then there is nothing you can do.

49 days and 7 hours ago.

Reply

Most years the earnings covered expenses but I did not draw a salary and the business was profitable a few times but not by much. (I am a songwriter/producer and any income would/will come from residuals. My wife and I also opened a brick and mortar party supply store with the intent to develop it so the grandchildren have something. We did not take any salary just invested in the business).

 

What would constitute earnings subject to SS? We lived off SEPP from my IRA, made investments from it, paid taxes on it, etc.

 

I opted not to go on disability, but rather contribute to the best of my ability.

 

I would think there has to be something that can be done to rectify, lets say a poor judgement on my part and lack of knowledge on the inner workings of the system.

Accepted Answer

Only earnings from working would constitute SS earnings. Earnings from working would consist of earnings on a W-2 as an employee, a profit on Schedule C as a sole proprietor, or on a K-1 (Form 1065) as a partner.

 

IRA withdrawals and investment income are not included as this is unearned income and social security taxes are not paid on this type of income.

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Expert: Bill
Pos. Feedback: 99.6 %
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Answered: 10/5/2009

Enrolled Agent

EA, QPA, CHFC, CEBS, CLU - 29 years experience providing financial advice

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