Social Security Q&A;

McClatchy-Tribune News Service

Q: I'm a retired worker. It looks like I underestimated when I reported my expected earnings to Social Security. Do I need to report this?

A: Yes, if you are receiving reduced retirement benefits and you still work, you need to let us know if your earnings are going to be higher or lower than anticipated. Just call us toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). Learn more about it by visiting our online publication, How Work Affects Your Benefits, at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10069.html. Or you can call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to request a free copy.

Q: How many years do I need to work to make sure I'm eligible for Social Security retirement benefits?

A: Everyone born in 1929 or later needs at least 40 credits to be eligible for retirement benefits. You can earn a maximum of four credits per year, so you will need to work at least 10 years to become eligible for retirement benefits. Each year the amount of earnings needed for a credit rises as average earnings levels rise. In 2007, you receive one credit for each $1,000 of earnings, up to the maximum of four credits per year. For more information, visit Social Security's Web site at www.socialsecurity.gov or call Social Security's toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).

This column was prepared by the Social Security Administration. For fast answers to specific Social Security questions, contact Social Security toll-free at 800-772-1213.