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OPM.gov / Frequently Asked Questions / Retire FAQ / Post-Retirement
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Post-Retirement

Questions and answers

For purposes of the Disability Earnings Survey, the following are considered earned income:

  • Any salary or pay you received working for someone else (including overtime, vacation pay, bonuses, and severance pay, etc.)
  • Any net profit you made from self-employment (working or managing your own business)
  • Deferred income (income you earned but didn't receive during this calendar year).
  • If you are reemployed in Federal service, the gross income before your employing agency offsets your salary.

Generally, all income subject to Federal employment taxes or self-employment is considered earned income. It is on any W-2 statement issued by your employer. DO NOT INCLUDE MONEY EARNED BEFORE YOU RETIRED.

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