How much can I earn while receiving Social Security
The amount you can earn while receiving Social Security depends on your age. Your earnings in (and after) the month you reach full retirement age will not affect your Social Security benefits. However, your benefit is reduced if your earnings exceed certain limits for the months before you reach your full retirement age.
If you are under full retirement age for the entire year:
You can earn $15,120 gross wages or net self-employment a year and not lose any benefits in 2013.
We will deduct $1 in benefits for every $2 earned above $15,120.
In the year you reach full retirement age:
You can earn $40,080 gross wages or net self-employment prior to the month you reach full retirement age and not lose any benefits in 2013.
Social Security Administration will deduct $1 in benefits for every $3 earned above $40,080.
The same earnings limits apply to a spouse or child who works and receives benefits on your record. You should report earnings to us for any months and years prior to full retirement age.
I will be 60 years of age in April. I was married for over 10 years, divorced, and in the meantime my ex husband has passed away. Am I entitled to widow’s social security from my husband and if so, how do I go about applying?