May 14, 2019
WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Jackie Walorski (R-Ind.) last Friday reintroduced the Senior Citizens’ Freedom to Work Act, legislation to end a penalty on seniors who continue working after claiming Social Security benefits.
“Any older American who wants to keep working after taking Social Security shouldn’t have their benefits reduced or delayed,” Congresswoman Walorski said. “Eliminating this unnecessary penalty on seniors in the workforce is a simple but important reform, and it’s just common sense. The Senior Citizens’ Freedom to Work Act will help working seniors and simplify Social Security for those who depend on it.”
BACKGROUND
The Senior Citizens’ Freedom to Work Act would eliminate a penalty on Social Security Old-Age (OASI) beneficiaries who choose to enter, remain in, or return to the labor force. Specifically, the bill would eliminate the Retirement Earnings Test (RET) that affects younger seniors who choose to continue working after claiming Social Security benefits.
In 2000, Congress eliminated the RET for those who are at or above their full retirement age. This bill would build on that reform by eliminating the earnings penalty for all Social Security OASI beneficiaries.
Walorski represents the 2nd Congressional District of Indiana, serving as a member of the House Ways and Means Committee.