By Robert Pore
robert.pore@theindependent.com

"I fully support this legislation and the intent behind it," Smith said. "Farmers and ranchers deserve access to the Social Security retirement benefits they are entitled to without having to struggle with an outdated system. This bill is a sensible approach."

Nebraska Farm Bureau has asked Smith and other members of the state's congressional representatives to support the bill.

"Qualifying for Social Security benefits can be difficult for self-employed farmers and ranchers because they do not always have a steady income stream," said Rob Robertson, Farm Bureau vice president/governmental relations.

He said that when there are no earnings, no Social Security taxes are paid and no quarters are accrued.

Robertson said Congress provided a way for farmers and ranchers to make voluntary optional payments into the system as a way of keeping benefits in place.

"However, the contribution thresholds are outdated and no longer allow farmers and ranchers to maintain Social Security benefits for themselves and their families during difficult financial times," he said.

Robertson said the bill, H.R. 4215, would correct this situation by updating the optional method for computing net earnings from self-employment.

"With these changes, farmers and ranchers would once again be able to maintain important Social Security retirement, survivors and disability benefits," he said.