1100.Social Security Coverage for the Self-Employed

1100.1When did Social Security coverage begin for self-employed people?

Most self-employed people became covered by Social Security in 1951.

1100.2What are the exceptions?

1. Farmers, ministers, and some other individuals (including certain professionals) were not covered until 1955;

2. Additional groups of professionals were covered for taxable years ending after 1955; and

3. Self-employed doctors of medicine were covered for taxable years ending on or after December 31, 1965.

   Note: See §1122 for a detailed list of activities excluded from self-employment coverage.

1100.3How is self-employment income calculated?

“Self-employment income” that is creditable for Social Security is based on “net earnings from self-employment” derived from a “trade or business” covered by the law.

Payment from self-employment that is not covered under Social Security is included when figuring income for earnings test purposes. (See Chapter 18)