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.
To earn the maximum benefit, you must have made at least the maximum taxable amount of wages every year of your working life since the age of 21. In 2012, that amount was set at $110,100. If you earn any wages over and above that amount, you did not pay Social Security taxes on the earnings. If you're curious about your entitlement to retirement benefits, you can request a Benefit Statement by going online at ssa.gov or calling the agency as 800-772-1213.