Social Security Benefits Based on Time Worked

Approximately sixty million people receive Social Security benefits, but one of the most frequently asked questions is: How long do I have to work to get the benefits? The answer depends on the type of benefit claimed because the amount of time can vary greatly based on your situation.

To receive Social Security benefits, you must accumulate a certain number of credits, normally earning up to four per year, and to qualify for retirement benefits from Social Security, you need forty credits. Additionally, different rules apply to gain work credits for disability and survivor benefits.

See Dan Caplinger, Social Security: How Long Do I Have to Work to Get Benefits?, Motley Fool, May 22, 2016.