If you’re planning for retirement in 2025, one of the most important things to understand is how long you need to work to qualify for Social Security benefits. While the rules may sound a bit technical, the basic requirement is clear: you must earn 40 work credits to qualify for retirement payments from the Social Security Administration (SSA).
So, how do you earn these credits, and what do they really mean for your future benefits? Let’s break it down in a simple way.
What Are Social Security Credits?
Social Security credits are the key to accessing retirement benefits in the U.S. They are earned through your income when you work and pay Social Security taxes — either through a job or self-employment.
In 2025, you earn one credit for every $1,810 you make, and you can earn up to four credits per year. So, if you earn at least $7,240 in 2025, you will earn the full four credits for that year.
The money you make must be from a job that is covered by Social Security, meaning you’re paying into the system through payroll deductions or self-employment tax.
How Many Years Do You Need to Work?
To qualify for Social Security retirement benefits, you need to earn 40 credits. Since you can earn four credits a year, that usually means you need to work for at least 10 years.
You can earn these credits any time during your life. They do not expire, and they do not have to be earned in consecutive years. So, even if you take a break from working, your past credits will still count.
Example:
If you work full-time and earn more than $7,240 each year from age 25 to 35, you will have earned 40 credits by age 35 — making you eligible for retirement benefits later in life.
How Credits Work for Self-Employed Individuals
If you run your own business, you can also earn credits as long as you report your earnings and pay self-employment taxes. Your net income (profit) is what counts toward Social Security credits, not your total revenue.
So whether you work for a company or are self-employed, your Social Security contributions help you earn the credits needed for retirement benefits.
When Can You Start Claiming Social Security?
Once you have earned your 40 credits, you are officially eligible to receive retirement benefits. However, the age at which you start claiming those benefits makes a big difference in how much you receive each month.
Your Options:
- Age 62: You can start getting Social Security at this age, but your monthly amount will be reduced by up to 30%. This reduction is permanent.
- Full Retirement Age (FRA): If you were born in 1960 or later, your FRA is 67. At this age, you receive 100% of your benefits based on your earnings history.
- Age 70: If you delay your benefits until age 70, you’ll earn delayed retirement credits, which increase your monthly payments.
The longer you wait (up to age 70), the higher your monthly benefit will be.