they can't do that. I know this. But what my issue is the unit is telling me I must cover the period only while he was at this unit for his award and not a comprehensive service award like a retirement award. Should I cover the other 6 years of service not in this unit for this ETS award. Update 2: I thank you for all this, but I am a senior NCO.
You can earn wages up to the earnings limit of $14,640 with no reduced Social Security. In 2012, any money you make over the earnings limit of $14,640 will reduce your Social Security payments. Every $2 you make over the limit reduces your Social Security payments by $1. For 2013, that limit is $15,120.
As if that isn't complicated enough, Social Security offers a sweeter deal in the year in which you reach full retirement age. In that year, you can make up to $40,080 without seeing your benefit reduced, and the reduction is $1 for every $3 earned over the $40,080 threshold.