In order to earn one credit toward a Social Security retirement benefit, you will need to earn $1,090 in 2009, up from $1,050 this year. To qualify for a retirement benefit, up to 35 years of earnings are needed. You can earn four credits per year. The 35 years of earnings are indexed to reflect today's wages.

The maximum monthly Social Security benefit for a worker retiring at full retirement age in 2009 is $2,323, up from $2,185. Remember that not everyone draws the same benefit, it depends on your earnings level and the number of years you have worked and paid Social Security taxes on your earnings.

The estimated average monthly Social Security benefits payable in January, 2009, before the 5.8 percent cost-of-living increase and after are as follows:

• For retired workers: before $1,090, and after $1,153.

For an aged couple, both drawing benefits: before $1,773, and after $1,876.

• A widowed mother and two children: before $2,268, and after $2,399.

•A single aged widow or widower: before $1,051, and after $1,112.

• A disabled worker, spouse and one or more children: before $1,695, and after $1,793.

• All disabled workers: before $1,006, and after $1,064.

There is a limit on your earnings when you are drawing benefits before your full retirement age. For people who are drawing benefits and are under their full retirement age, one dollar in benefits will be withheld for each $2 in earnings above the annual limit of $14,160 in 2009. If it is your first year of retirement your limit will be based on a monthly limit of $1,180.

The year you reach full retirement age, for months before your full retirement age birthday, one dollar in benefits will be withheld for every $3 earned above the $37,680 annual limit, or $3,140 per month.

Once you reach your full retirement age birthday, there is no limit on the amount you can earn and draw your full benefit check. Questions: judybenge@bellsouth.net.