What Is a Work Credit for Social Security?
Explore Social Security work credits, the essential measure of your earnings history that determines eligibility for future benefits.
Social Security is a federal program providing benefits to retirees, those with qualifying disabilities, and surviving family members. A fundamental concept within this system is the “work credit,” which the Social Security Administration (SSA) uses to measure an individual’s work history and determine benefit eligibility. Understanding how these credits are earned and their role in benefit qualification is important for navigating Social Security.
Earning Social Security Work Credits
Work credits represent units of earnings accumulated through employment or self-employment. These credits are earned when a person works in a job covered by Social Security and pays the corresponding Social Security taxes. The amount of earnings required to earn one work credit is adjusted annually to reflect changes in average wages.
For 2025, an individual earns one Social Security work credit for every $1,810 in covered earnings. A maximum of four work credits can be earned in any single year. To earn all four credits in 2025, an individual must have total annual earnings of at least $7,240.
Credits are based on total annual earnings, not specific calendar quarters. Once earned, Social Security work credits remain permanently on an individual’s record and do not expire, even with breaks in employment.
Work Credit Requirements for Social Security Benefits
The total number of work credits accumulated influences eligibility for different types of Social Security benefits. Each benefit category has specific credit thresholds that must be met. These requirements vary depending on the type of benefit and, in some cases, the age of the applicant.
For retirement benefits, most individuals need 40 work credits to be considered “fully insured.” This typically equates to 10 years of work, as a maximum of four credits can be earned per year. These 10 years of work do not need to be consecutive.
Disability benefits involve a two-part test: a “recent work test” and a “duration of work test.” The number of credits required depends on the age at which the disability began.
For instance, individuals becoming disabled before age 24 generally need 6 credits earned in the three-year period immediately preceding their disability. If disability occurs between ages 24 and 31, individuals typically need credits for half the time between age 21 and the onset of disability, such as 12 credits for someone disabled at age 27. For those aged 31 or older, the general rule is to have at least 20 credits earned in the 10 years leading up to the disability.
Survivor benefits, paid to eligible family members after a worker’s death, depend on the deceased worker’s credit history. A worker who was fully insured (40 credits) provides benefits to their spouse, children, or dependent parents. Benefits may still be available to a worker’s children and a spouse caring for those children if the worker was “currently insured,” meaning they earned at least 6 credits in the three years immediately before their death. The specific number of credits needed for survivor benefits can be less for younger workers.
Reviewing Your Work Credit Record
Understanding your Social Security work credit history is a practical step in financial planning and can provide insights into your future benefit eligibility. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers accessible methods for individuals to review their earnings records and accumulated credits.
The primary method for accessing your Social Security record is through creating a “my Social Security” online account on the SSA’s official website. This secure online portal allows individuals to view their complete earnings history, the number of work credits they have earned, and estimated future benefits based on their current record.
For those who prefer not to use the online portal, it is also possible to request a Social Security Statement by mail. This statement provides a detailed summary of earnings and credits, typically sent to individuals aged 60 and older three months before their birthday.