You can still earn income when you draw Social Security early, there are limits though. In 2014, you can earn up to $15,480 a year and receive your early Social Security payment. Over and above that threshold, your Social Security payout is reduced by $1 for every $2 you earn. In the year you reach your full Social Security age, you can earn up $3,450 a month before you reach 66, without affecting your benefits. (In that year, it’s reduced by $1 for every $3 you earn over the limit). The bottom line is if you earn more than the threshold, it doesn’t make sense to take your benefit early.