ArticleGrad S.
Soc Secur Bull. 1977 Mar;40(3):3-12, 38.
Examination of the benefit awards data under the social security program may furnish at least partial answers to two questions: What is the estimated number retiring each year? How long do they stay retired? The calculation presented here of the number retiring in 1971 takes into account the fact that the date of the award is not necessarily the actual date of retirement. The difference has been accentuated since Medicare began and individuals have been filing for benefits solely to obtain hospital insurance protection, continuing to earn at a level that precludes receipt of benefits under the earnings test. This study of the data on payable benefits indicates that only a small proportion of retirees lose benefits because of their return to work within 3 years after award.