Your Social Security Retirement Pay Could Be at Risk Without This Crucial Step – What You Need to Know

Social Security retirement benefits are a lifeline for millions of Americans—but did you know that your monthly check could be smaller than you deserve if you overlook one simple but critical task? Verifying your earnings record might not seem urgent, but skipping this step could cost you thousands over your retirement.

In this article, we’ll explain why reviewing your earnings history matters, how to do it correctly, and what other strategies can help you get the most from Social Security.

Overview

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Here’s a quick look at why this topic matters:

Taking just a few minutes to review your record each year could protect decades of retirement income.

Why

Your Social Security benefits are calculated based on your 35 highest-earning years. If your earnings record is wrong—even by a little—it can significantly reduce your payments. Worse, benefits might be denied if income goes unreported.

Real-Life Example

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Maria worked various part-time jobs over 40 years. When she retired, she noticed two years of income were missing from her SSA record. She submitted her W-2s to correct it, but if she hadn’t checked, she would’ve lost $200 per month—or $2,400 a year.

Steps

Want to make sure you’re getting what you’ve earned? Here’s how to do it step by step.

Step 1

Log into your My Social Security account at ssa.gov. Once inside, click “Earnings Record” to see what the government has on file for you year by year.

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Pro tip: Review this every year, especially after changing jobs or self-employment.

Step 2

Look out for:

• Missing income (especially from part-time or freelance work)
• Wrong figures for self-employment
• Gaps that don’t match your work history

Even small inconsistencies can affect your final benefit amount.

Step 3

Here’s what to do if you spot an error:

1. Contact the Employer to confirm they reported your income.
2. Collect documents like:
   • W-2 forms
   • Pay stubs
   • Tax returns
3. Report to SSA by:
   • Calling 1-800-772-1213
   • Visiting a local SSA office
   • Mailing your documents to the SSA

The process can take several weeks or even months—so don’t delay.

WEP

The Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) can reduce your benefits if you also receive a pension from a job not covered by Social Security (like some government roles). But there are ways to reduce the impact.

How to Avoid WEP Reduction

• Work at least 30 years in jobs where you paid into Social Security.
• Check SSA’s Substantial Earnings Table to see if your past earnings qualify.
• Use the WEP Calculator at SSA.gov to estimate your impact.

Delay

Delaying retirement may not sound exciting—but it pays off big. If you wait past your Full Retirement Age (FRA), your benefit increases every year until age 70.

Example:

That’s a 24% increase just for waiting a few extra years.

Spousal

If you’re married, divorced, or widowed, don’t overlook spousal and survivor benefits. They can help you or your spouse qualify for higher monthly payments.

• Spousal Benefit: Up to 50% of your spouse’s benefit.
• Survivor Benefit: Up to 100% of a deceased spouse’s benefit.

It’s worth checking which option gives you more income. You can’t receive both at full value, so timing and strategy matter.

Final Tip

Take five minutes today to log into your My Social Security account and check your earnings record. A small effort now could mean a big difference in your future income.

FAQs