Tandem Head's Social Security "TIP OF THE DAY"

Credits needed to qualify for benefits

You must earn a certain number of credits to be eligible for Social Security benefits. The number of credits you need depends on your age when you apply and the type of benefit you are applying for. No one needs more than 40 credits for any Social Security benefit.

To qualify for Social Security benefits in the United States, you must meet specific requirements depending on the type of benefit. Below is a concise overview of the main categories:

1. Retirement Benefits

Age: You must be at least 62 to start receiving benefits, though full retirement age (FRA) varies (66–67, depending on your birth year). Benefits are reduced if taken before FRA.

Work Credits: You need 40 credits (roughly 10 years of work), earned by paying Social Security taxes. In 2025, you earn one credit for every $1,810 in covered earnings, up to four credits per year.

Eligibility: You must be a U.S. citizen or a lawfully present non-citizen with a valid Social Security number (SSN).