For most retirees, Social Security income is a necessity to make ends meet. Even though the average retired-worker benefit in May was only $1,916.63 (about $23,000 on an annualized basis), no social program pulls more seniors out of poverty each year than Social Security.

Moreover, 23 years of annual surveys conducted by national pollster Gallup have found that 80% to 90% of retirees rely on their monthly Social Security check to cover at least some portion of their expenses.

Considering how vital Social Security income is to retirees, getting as much as possible out of America's top retirement program is imperative. But something that can be equally important is understanding and/or avoiding the numerous ways your Social Security benefit can be reduced or terminated.

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Source Fool.com