Millions of Americans rely on Social Security benefits as a critical source of income in retirement or during times of disability. But not everyone automatically qualifies. Knowing whether you meet the eligibility requirements — and how to check your status — can help you plan your financial future with confidence.
Who Qualifies for Social Security Benefits?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides Social Security payments to retirees, people with disabilities, and survivors of deceased workers. Generally, eligibility is based on your work history and contributions to the Social Security system through payroll taxes.
You may qualify if:
- You have worked long enough to earn 40 work credits (typically 10 years of employment).
- You are at least 62 years old for retirement benefits (full retirement age ranges between 66 and 67, depending on your birth year).
- You are younger but unable to work due to a disability recognized by the SSA.
- You are a surviving spouse or dependent of a worker who paid into Social Security.
How to Check Your Eligibility
Fortunately, verifying your eligibility is straightforward. The SSA offers multiple ways to confirm whether you qualify:
- Create a “my Social Security” account
- Visit SSA.gov and set up an account.
- Once logged in, you can view your work history, earnings record, and an estimate of future benefits.
- Review Your Social Security Statement
- The statement shows how many credits you’ve earned and whether you’ve met the minimum required for benefits.
- It also outlines your estimated monthly payments at different claiming ages.
- Use the Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool (BEST)
- The SSA’s online questionnaire provides a quick way to see what programs you may qualify for, including retirement, disability (SSDI), or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
- Contact the SSA Directly
- Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or visit a local Social Security office for personalized help.
Key Things to Keep in Mind
- Work credits matter: Most people earn one credit per quarter of work. In 2025, you earn one credit for every $1,730 in wages or self-employment income (up to four per year).
- SSI is different from Social Security: Supplemental Security Income is based on financial need rather than work history.
- Early vs. full retirement: Claiming at 62 reduces your monthly payment, while waiting until full retirement age (or beyond, up to age 70) increases it.
Why Checking Eligibility Matters
For many households, Social Security accounts for a large portion of retirement income. Pew Research reports that 77% of older Americans rely on Social Security to make ends meet, with nearly one in five saying it is their only source of retirement income.
Checking your eligibility early allows you to:
- Plan for retirement more effectively.
- Decide when to claim benefits to maximize payouts.
- Explore other financial options if your benefits are lower than expected.