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How to Check and Protect Your Earnings History for Social Security Benefits

Do you remember what you made at your very first job? Whether it was years or decades ago, it’s possible to find out—and it’s a great step toward securing your future Social Security benefits.

Your earnings history is essentially a record of all the money you’ve earned throughout your working life. This record isn’t just for nostalgia; it’s what the Social Security Administration (SSA) uses to calculate the benefits you’ll receive in retirement, disability, or other situations. That’s why it’s crucial to keep an eye on it and ensure it’s accurate.

Why Review Your Earnings History?

It’s your employer’s responsibility to report your earnings accurately to the SSA. However, mistakes happen. If your record is missing wages or has incorrect information, you won’t get full credit for the payroll taxes you’ve already paid. This can lower your future benefits by thousands of dollars over the course of your retirement.

How to Check Your Earnings Record

The easiest way to review your earnings history is by creating or logging into your personal my Social Security account at the SSA website. Once logged in, you can view your earnings record and compare it with your personal documents like W-2s and tax returns. Keep in mind that earnings from the current and previous year might not appear yet.

The SSA even sends a handy email reminder about three months before your birthday, nudging you to check your records and get an estimate of your future benefits.

Spot an Error? Here’s What to Do

If you notice a mistake, don’t panic! The SSA has resources to guide you through correcting your earnings record. Start by reading their publication, How to Correct Your Social Security Earnings Record. Addressing errors sooner rather than later ensures you’ll have all the documentation you need to set things straight.

Make It a Conversation Starter

Talking about Social Security might not be the first thing on your mind, but it’s worth sharing this tip with friends or family. Ask them about their first job and let them know they can check their earnings history too. It’s a simple way to help each other secure your financial future.

Taking the time to review your earnings record is quick, easy, and can make a huge difference when it comes to the benefits you deserve. Why not check it today?

The material in this article was provided by https://blog.ssa.gov/access-your-earnings-history-with-my-social-security/and processed with the aid of AI.