I'm 71 yrs old and currently receiving social security. Since loosing my husband in 2020 and his income I have had to take a part-time job to help with bills. How much can I make a year before it affects my social security payment?

Hi. I'm sorry for your loss. Since you've already reached full retirement age (FRA), there's no limit on the amount that you could earn and still be able to collect all of your Social Security benefits.

As for your benefit amount, the only way that additional earnings could raise your benefit rate is if you're a) receiving benefits based on your own record as opposed to widow's benefits, and b) if you earn more in a year than you did in one of your previous highest 35 years of Social Security covered wage-indexed earnings.

Best, Jerry