Science fiction is often referred to as a genre that specializes in tackling "what if" questions. For example, what if we could time-travel? What if robots had minds of their own? What if aliens came to Earth to rule us?

If you're under 40, you've likely heard claims that Social Security might not be around when you retire. While this is an exaggeration, the concern is rooted in reality.

I applied for early retirement. Can I stop my Social Security benefits if I take early retirement? And can I work part-time while collecting Social Security? If so, is the Social Security deduction going towards my benefits? And is the maximum amount earned through part-time work calculated off gross income or net income?