Ask the Experts: How Unemployment Benefits Affect Social Security

Illustration by Mark Zingarelli

Q. Can I collect unemployment compensation and Social Security benefits at the same time?

A. Yes. Unemployment benefits are not counted as wages under the Social Security annual earnings test, so it won’t affect your Social Security benefits. However, the amount of your unemployment benefit could be reduced if you receive a pension or other retirement income, including Social Security benefits. For more on work and benefits, go to www.socialsecu rity.gov/pubs/10069.html.

Source: Stan Hinden