Can I collect unemployment benefits and social security benefits at the same time?

Q) Can I collect unemployment and social security at the same time I am 66 and was laid off last week. I still want to work.

A) Yes, you can collect unemployment and Social Security at the same time. However, there are some things to keep in mind.

• Your Social Security benefits will be reduced by the amount of your unemployment benefits.
• You may have to pay taxes on your unemployment benefits.
• You may have to meet certain requirements to continue receiving both benefits.

If you are laid off, you should file for unemployment benefits as soon as possible. You can file online or by phone. You will need to provide some basic information, such as your name, Social Security number, and the date of your layoff.

Again you should also contact your local Social Security office to let them know that you have filed for unemployment benefits. They will be able to tell you how your benefits will be affected.

You can receive unemployment benefits and Social Security benefits at the same time. Social Security Administration does not count unemployment insurance benefits as earning. However your unemployment benefit may be reduced if you receive benefits from Social Security at the same time with your unemployment benefits. Remember, Social Security has no problem with you receiving income from both sources at the same time.

If you have any questions about collecting unemployment and Social Security at the same time, you should contact your state’s unemployment office or your local Social Security office.