How many years do you have to work to receive Social Security benefits in 2025?
If you're planning for retirement in 2025, one of the most important questions to ask is: How many years do I need to work to qualify for Social Security benefits? The answer, while straightforward, depends on how many credits you've earned over the course of your working life.Social Security benefits are not automatically granted. Instead, they are based on a credit system established by the Social Security Administration (SSA). These credits reflect your work history and the amount of Social Security taxes you've paid through payroll deductions or self-employment contributions.To become eligible for retirement benefits, you must earn a minimum of 40 credits. As a general rule, this usually requires 10 years of work, assuming you earn enough each year to reach the maximum number of credits available annually."In 2025, you earn one credit for every $1,810 in earnings, up […]
