Photo by wavebreakmedia From Shutterstock
6. Infrequent workers
We overstressed this topic about Social Security benefits because it’s very important. And to earn the system benefits, you need at least 10 years on American territory. And some people aren’t exactly beneficiaries just because they don’t have enough credits.
People like this are mostly immigrants that come to the States when they are 50 years of age or older, and the other half have infrequent working years.
But they may get lucky because they can benefit from their spouses (in case they are married).
7. You failed the social security earnings test
There are some early claimers that are still working to pass the Social Security earnings test in order to become eligible for the benefits. And let me tell you: if you reach the age of retirement, you can claim your benefits.
In 2021, the SSA retained $1 in benefits for every $2 earned over $19,000 in that year. But there is a forgiving monthly test for those who enter the year of retirement.
You neglect to mention those affected by the GPO and WEP issues that reduce or, in some cases, remove the Social Security benefits that should be paid.
I was hoping this year the House and Senate would vote to eliminate both the GPO and WEP. Unfortunately, those unfair reductions are still applicable. My credits earned were from 21 years of service in the Military. No one that was employed by the Federal, State, County, or City Governments and “earned” their 40 credits should be denied what they are entitled, to.
Don’t forget the people who earned their 40 credits, but also worked under a state retirement plan. I get my state retirement, but no social security. Not even using my husband’s social security amount.
Tamia but just remember you are still getting a plan. you do not get social security yet you do get teacher retirement, I do not. Be happy
My son, who works in CO asa teacher, gets no Social Security as the entire state has opted out for all government employees.Does he have any recourse?
Agree with Tamia. I get a federaal retirement. My husband retired from the Navy after 43 years after which he worked in the private sector for over 20 yrs. I can not get anything from Social Security based on his history.
Losing social security is a risk for all Americans. we reached budget limit. Yellen announced accounting trick to delay default until June. Yesterday she announced not reinvesting in govt retirement bonds. no plan on repayment, so this eliminates another year of social security. Medicare payments being delayed. Tell yellen and congress don’t use my social security to pay your bills. Cut military expenses. Stop developing new weapons that US can use to start more wars.
If my wife don’t have enough credits can she use some of mine to bring her up to the amount
she need?
Interesting story! I had such a great time reading this.
my sister started working for NSA right after she got out of high school in 1964 until she retired in the late1990’s can she apply for social security she is 76 years old