Social Security Earnings Test

Your editorial espousing the elimination of the Social Security “penalty” on wages above $9,700 (over the amount paid by Social Security and any retirement funds or savings interest) misses the point of the Social Security program. The plan was meant to help people in retirement; it was created at a time when encouraging people to leave the work force was desirable, so that jobs could be available for those younger people out of work. And that time is again with us.

Elimination of the present rule would have people working past the age of 65 get an automatic monthly bonus from Social Security. Why, in this time of fiscal stress, would you encourage such a giveaway?

WILFRED COUZIN, Laguna Nights