Retirement and Social Security
Definition
Units you earn by working and paying Social Security tax; most people need 40 credits, about 10 years of work, to get retirement benefits.
What it means
Social Security credits, also called quarters of coverage, measure how long you have worked in jobs covered by Social Security. In 2026, you earn one credit for each $1,890 of covered earnings, up to four credits a year, so earning $7,560 or more gives the maximum of four. People born in 1929 or later need 40 credits to qualify for retirement benefits, and the same credits count toward premium-free Medicare Part A. Disability and survivor benefits can require fewer credits depending on age. Extra credits do not raise your benefit; your benefit is based on your highest 35 years of indexed earnings. Credits stay on your record even if you stop working. The U.S. has agreements with some countries that can help combine work credits.
Example
A part-time worker who earns $8,000 in covered wages in 2026 earns all four credits for the year, because $8,000 is more than $7,560.
Illustrative numbers only. Your situation will differ.