Hey - I'm a first-timer here - neat forums. I'm an early retiree who will start drawing social security in March, 2009, at age 62. I work part-time, and I'm thoroughly confused by the details of the earnings penalty. I understand that $1 will be withheld for every $2 earned above the threshold. Past that, I'm having trouble finding any details. I'd appreciate feedback from anyone who understands the system.
1) What counts as "earnings"? Does it include pension? Investment earnings? Is there a particular line on my 1040 that's used to represent earnings?
2) When I start drawing in March, 2009, will an earnings penalty be applied immediately, based on 2008 earnings?
3) What else do I need to know about the earnings penalty?
Thanks very much for your help.
1) What counts as "earnings"? Does it include pension? Investment earnings? Is there a particular line on my 1040 that's used to represent earnings?
2) When I start drawing in March, 2009, will an earnings penalty be applied immediately, based on 2008 earnings?
3) What else do I need to know about the earnings penalty?
Thanks very much for your help.