The Big Picture
Many NHRS members will receive Social Security benefits in addition to their NHRS pension. Understanding how the two systems work, and how they differ, can help you plan confidently for retirement.
What’s New
The
2026 Social Security Trustees Report is now available and provides updated information on the program’s long-term outlook.
This report serves as a reminder that Social Security continues to play a key role in retirement income for many public employees, even as NHRS operates independently under state law.
How Social Security Benefits Are Calculated
A helpful resource for understanding Social Security is the May 2026 GRS Perspectives article, “
Understanding Social Security Benefits.” The article explains the 35-year earnings formula and shows how your work history affects your benefit amount—valuable information for members planning how Social Security fits into their overall retirement strategy.
Group I and Group II: What Members Need to Know
Group I (Employees & Teachers)
Most Group I positions participate in Social Security. Members in these roles typically:
- Pay Social Security payroll taxes
- Earn Social Security credits each year
- Receive a Social Security benefit in retirement based on their earnings history
For Group I members, Social Security often serves as one of the three legs of the retirement stool: NHRS pension + Social Security + personal savings.
Group II (Police & Fire)
Group II members do not participate in Social Security through their NHRS-covered employment. However, they may still qualify for benefits if they have covered employment elsewhere. With the 2025 repeal of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO), Group II members with mixed covered and non-covered work now have their Social Security benefits calculated the same way as other workers.
Why This Matters
NHRS and Social Security are separate systems, one state and one federal, but both can play important roles in your financial future. Understanding how each works helps you make informed decisions about timing, savings, and retirement planning.
Reminder: The retirement system is not connected with Social Security. Your NHRS pension benefit will not be affected by when you choose to receive Social Security, or how much you receive.
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