Which Social Security benefits do I qualify for?

Each set of Social Security benefits comes with its own set of eligibility requirements.

There are certain criteria you need to meet in order to get the payments.

Social Security: Did you claim early? Here’s how to boost payments

Eligibility requirements

Being aware of the eligibility requirements is important for figuring out which Social Security benefits you can get. Many people who qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can also claim benefits through the Social Security program. Read more about it here.

In order to claim Social Security benefits, you have at be at least 62, disabled, blind, and have enough work credits.

Work credits confuse lots of people. Essentially, you can earn four work credits in a year and they aligned with your annual earnings. As wages increase each year, the earnings amount for a work credit rises.

To qualify for most benefits, you need to have earned at least one work credit for each year from 21 and the year you become disabled, blind, or 62 years old. The maximum credits is 40. The minimum requirement is six work credits and age isn’t taken into consideration.

Work credits are not required for family members who qualify for benefits based on your work record.

If you want to know more about what your benefits could look like, you can create an account with the Social Security Administration on their Social Security Statement page.

IRS: Many Americans see surprise tax bill they didn’t expect