As a couple, I know we can earn up to $32,000/yr. over our Social Security benefit. My question is does my wifes pension count towards that $32,000. She was a teacher and will collect from a PERA fund and she won't collect Social security.

Hi,

I assume what you are referring to is the income threshold for determining whether or not your Social Security benefits are taxable as income. Although I'm not an expert on tax law, my understanding is that the threshold you refer to is based on your modified adjusted gross income, which I assume would include your all of your wife's income. For more detailed information, refer to Social Security's website: https://www.ssa.gov/planners/taxes.html.

Best, Jerry