When it comes to Social Security benefits, most people think about retirement payments. However, not everyone qualifies for these monthly payments and they may not be enough.
Among all the possibilities, Americans can apply for retirement, disability insurance, Supplemental Security Income, and survivors and family benefits. What is more, you may qualify for 2 of them at the same time.
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Requirements to get Social Security retirement or disability benefits
If you would like to file for Social Security retirement benefits, you must have earned 40 work credits. As you work, you pay payroll taxes and you get 1 work credit for each $1,730 of earnings in 2024.
In general, you need 10 years of work to earn 40 work credits. To get Social Security Disability Insurance, you must have also worked for a minimum number of years and paid enough taxes to SSA.
What is more, you must have a qualifying disability that meets the strict definition SSA set. For example, to claim SSDI at 60, you must have worked for at least 9.5 years. So, you can get SSDI even if you have fewer than 40 work credits but only if you are younger.
Eligibility for SSI, or Social Security survivors and family benefits
SSI is for low-income Americans who have a disability, are blind, or are at least 65 years old. Some retirement or SSDI recipients can also receive SSI at the same time.
When a worker passes away, some family members like spouses and children can receive benefits on the worker’s record. Besides, they can receive a death lump sum.
In the same way, when a worker qualifies for Social Security retirement or SSDI benefits, spouses and children may be eligible for monthly payments. Make sure you check their eligibility using one of the SSA’s benefit calculator tools. Using a Statement can also be a great way to find out about possible payment amounts.