Social Security Work Credits: How Many Do You Need?
Published: 2/26/2024
Quick Facts
- 40 credits needed for retirement benefits (about 10 years of work)
- Maximum 4 credits per year — you can't earn more than 4 in any calendar year
- 2026: $1,890 per credit — the amount needed increases each year
- Spousal benefits don't require credits — you qualify through your spouse's work history
Understanding work credits is crucial for anyone planning their retirement or considering Social Security benefits. This guide explains what work credits are, how to earn them, and why they matter for your Social Security eligibility.
What Are Work Credits?
Work credits (also called "quarters of coverage") are the building blocks of your Social Security eligibility. They are earned by working and paying Social Security taxes. This system ensures a minimum level of work contribution before qualifying for benefits.
How Many Work Credits Do I Need?
For Retirement Benefits
You need 40 work credits to qualify for retirement benefits. Since you can earn a maximum of 4 credits per year, this typically requires at least 10 years of work.
For Survivor's Benefits
The number of work credits required for your family to qualify for survivor's benefits depends on your age at the time of death:
- Younger individuals need fewer credits
- The maximum required is 40 credits, regardless of age
For Disability Benefits
The required number of work credits for disability benefits varies based on your age when you become disabled. Generally, you need credits earned in recent years. For more details, visit the official SSA website.
How Do I Earn Work Credits?
Current Rules (2026)
- Work credits are earned by working and paying Social Security taxes
- You can earn up to 4 work credits per calendar year
- In 2026, you earn 1 credit for each $1,890 of earnings
- Partial credits cannot be earned — you need the full amount for each credit
Historical Background
Before 1978, one work credit was earned for each calendar quarter with at least $50 in wages. These were called "quarters of coverage" (QCs). The system changed to a yearly earnings-based approach starting in 1978.
Earnings Required Per Credit by Year
The earnings required to earn a credit increases yearly to keep pace with wage growth. Here's the amount needed for each year since 1978:
Example: How Credits Work
In 2026, you need $1,890 in earnings for each credit. If you earn $7,560 or more during the year, you'll receive all 4 credits. Earning $4,725 would give you 2 credits — the extra amount above $3,780 doesn't count toward a third credit.
Spousal Benefits and Work Credits
Important: To receive spousal benefits, you don't need to have earned work credits yourself. You only need to be married to someone who has earned enough work credits. This also applies to divorced spouses who were married for at least 10 years.
Check Your Credits
You can check how many work credits you've earned by creating an account at my Social Security. Your Statement will show your total credits earned and whether you're eligible for benefits.
Related Guides
- AIME Guide — Once you have 40 credits, learn how your earnings are averaged to calculate your benefit
- PIA Guide — How your averaged earnings become your monthly benefit amount
- Earnings Cap — The annual limit on earnings that count toward both credits and benefits
- Spousal Benefits — How to receive benefits without earning credits yourself
Use the SSA.tools calculator to see your complete earnings history and projected benefits based on your work record.