Social security attorney, reviewing the basics
How do these credits work, and how is it possible for me to not have enough when I have worked for years and paid taxes the whole time? A: When you work and pay Social Security taxes, you earn credits that are used to qualify you for social security benefits. The number of credits you receive is based on both income and the number of years worked. The necessary income level for receiving social security benefits credits rises a bit each year; as of 2008, you receive one credit for every $1,050 you earn. You can receive a maximum of four credits annually (which is why credits are also called 'quarters'), and any credits you earn will remain on your record even during periods in which you're not working. A certain number of credits or quarters are required in order to qualify you to receive social security benefits.