Why was Social Security and Medicare not deducted from my paychecks for a few months?

Question

I'm a college student and work a part-time on-campus job. My paychecks are usually less than or around 500 each month. I haven't had social security or medicare taken out of my paychecks for 8 months, but just this last month, they deducted social security and medicare. Why are they starting now? Is it due to a certain amount I have earned? If not, what?

Answer 1

For a secure answer, you should go to the social security office and ask .

Answer 2

Most likely scenario:

During the school year, you were paid out of work-study money.  Those payments are not subject to Social Security or Medicare.

During the summer, the school apparently has no work-study funds left, or chose to treat you as an employee.  As an employee, you are subject to Social Security and Medicare tax.

The change in deduction is not due to the amount you earned.

Answer 3

Some work-study programs at colleges and universities are exempt from FICA and Medicare tax withholding.  It's part of your tuition assistance and the amount you can earn is capped.  Once you exceed the capped amount, FICA and Medicare withholding will kick in.

Answer 4

Check with your payroll department.  Your first 8 months might have been considered as work-study which is exempt from paying into ss and medicare, and now you're on the regular college payroll.