In 2007, a beneficiary under the full retirement age (click here to find out what your full retirement age is) can earn $12,960 and not lose any benefits; in 2006, a beneficiary under the full retirement age can earn $12,480 and not lose any benefits. If earnings exceed this amount, $1 is held back from your check for each $2 earned above $12,960 for 2007 and $12,480 for 2006.

The "Retirement Earnings Test Exempt Amounts," are available on the Social Security Administration’s web-site at: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/OACT/COLA/RTEA.html.

For more information, the Social Security Administration’s recommend the Social Security Administration’s publication "How Work Affects Your Benefits", publication number 05-10069.

You can file for retirement benefits online.