Ask Larry

Would WEP Affect My Social Security Benefit Rate?

If I collect my Social Security benefit and am not yet collecting my benefit from my employer, who did not deduct Social Security taxes, and I have 30 years of substantial earnings does my Social Security benefit reduce by the Windfall provision?

Hi,

No, the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) doesn't apply unless and until you start drawing the non-covered pension. And, if you have at least 30 years of 'substantial' covered earnings (https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10045.pdf), you would be exempt from any WEP reduction even after you start receiving the non-covered pension.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Jan 22 2017 - 8:00am
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