Social Security confirms major change in requirements for 2025 – Getting a check will be harder

In 2025, Social Security requirements will undergo notable changes, which could impact millions of Americans. Social Security is a crucial system in which every working American pays 12.4% of their income, helping to fund retirement, disability, and survivor benefits for eligible individuals and families. While many workers expect to benefit from Social Security in the future, eligibility is determined by specific requirements, and these criteria will soon become more rigorous.

Let’s dive into what these changes entail, especially focusing on the increased income requirements for earning credits and new standards for qualifying for different Social Security benefits.

Stricter Work Credit Requirements for Social Security in 2025

To be eligible for Social Security retirement benefits, a worker must accumulate 40 work credits over their career. Individuals can earn up to four credits per year based on their annual income, and in 2024, one credit is equivalent to $1,730 in earnings. In 2025, this amount will rise to $1,810 per credit, meaning workers will need to earn at least $7,240 annually to obtain the maximum four credits.

While this change represents an increase in income requirements, many workers will still be able to meet these standards, even those working part-time. For those approaching retirement who haven’t yet accumulated the required credits, opening a Social Security account can help track work history and determine eligibility status. This account provides details on how many credits have been earned and whether more are needed to qualify for benefits.

Qualifying for Other Social Security Benefits in 2025

Beyond retirement benefits, Social Security offers additional programs, including spousal benefits, survivor benefits, and disability benefits. Each program has unique eligibility requirements, which are important to understand as they affect access to vital assistance.

Spousal Benefits

Spousal benefits are available to individuals based on their partner’s retirement payout, provided the partner meets the 40-credit threshold. To qualify, a spouse does not need their own work credits, but certain conditions must be met:

• Marital Status: You must be married to a qualifying worker, or if divorced, the marriage must have lasted at least 10 years.
• Caring for a Qualifying Child: You may qualify if you are caring for a minor or disabled child of a qualifying worker who is receiving retirement or disability benefits.

Survivor Benefits

Survivor benefits provide financial assistance to family members of deceased workers who have contributed to Social Security. Eligibility for survivors generally depends on the credits earned by the deceased worker:

• Standard Requirement: 40 credits or approximately 10 years of work is the standard benchmark.
• Reduced Requirement: Depending on the deceased worker’s age at death, fewer credits may qualify survivors for benefits, with as few as six credits needed for younger workers.

This flexibility ensures that the families of workers with limited time in the workforce can still potentially qualify for some level of survivor support.

Disability Benefits

Disability benefits are available to individuals who become disabled and are unable to work, provided they meet certain credit and age requirements. The number of credits needed varies based on the age at which the disability occurs:

• Age 24 or Younger: At least six credits earned within three years before the disability.
• Ages 24 to 30: Credits needed equate to half the period between age 21 and the start of the disability.
• Age 30 and Older: Typically requires 20 credits within the 10 years leading up to the disability.

This tiered system accommodates varying work histories and recognizes that younger workers may not have had the same time to accumulate credits as those who become disabled later in life.

Monitoring Social Security Credits

For those unsure of their Social Security status or credit count, setting up a Social Security account is a proactive step. This online account allows workers to monitor their earnings record and track their progress toward eligibility. This can be particularly useful for anyone who may need to work additional years to qualify for full retirement benefits or other Social Security programs.

Key Points for 2025 Social Security Eligibility

Benefit Type	Credit Requirements	Key Conditions
Retirement Benefits	40 credits (2025: $7,240 for four credits)	Credits can be earned over any work period, need not be consecutive.
Spousal Benefits	None personally required, but spouse needs 40	Must be currently married, or divorced after 10 years of marriage, or caring for child.
Survivor Benefits	Up to 40 credits, reduced for younger deceased	Fewer credits required based on worker’s age at death, minimum of six.
Disability Benefits	6-20 credits, varies with age	Based on age at disability onset; younger workers need fewer credits.