Larry, I had to take early Social Security benefir so I could combine with my income to survive. Due to health issues this year high medical expenses, I've had to work over time to pay these expenses. My income will exceed the income limit of $19,500 . My income will be approximately $30,000. I fear punishment from Social Security because of the additional income. I receive a monthly Social Security benefit of $1,278 which I've had to combine with my income to survive. I fear Social Security. When I first signed up for benefits, the Social Security representative talked to me in a very condescending manner. They have the power to hurt me. What can I do? I'll be 65 this November 30, 2017. Medicare will start November 1st. I have to make it till November 30, 201i when I will be 66 and able to make unlimited income. Can you advise me.

Hi,

I don't understand why you would fear Social Security. I worked for Social Security for 36 years, and I never knew of an instance of an employee taking any type of punitive action against a member of the public. The agency's stated goal is simply to pay people the correct amount of benefits at the correct time. If you ever feel that you've been mistreated by a federal government employee you can ask to speak to member of management, and if that doesn't resolve the issue you can report the problem to the office of one or more of your Congressional representatives.

Based on the limited information given in your question, it sounds like you may have an issue with the Social Security earnings test this year (https://www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/whileworking2.html). Social Security will need to withhold $1 of your benefits for each $2 that you earn in excess of $16,920 this year, although you can be paid for any months in which you earn less than $1,410. Hopefully, you have given Social Security an accurate estimate of how much you will earn this year so that they can pay you the correct amount of benefits. The good news is that since you will reach full retirement age next year, your earnings shouldn't pose a problem after this year. You should be able to earn to around $44,480 in the first 10 months next year, and any amount after that, without losing any of your benefits to the earnings test.

Best, Jerry