How many years do I need to work to get Social Security?
10 yearsAlthough you need at least 10 years of work (40 credits) to qualify for Social Security retirement benefits, we base the amount of your benefit on your highest 35 years of earnings.
Does everyone get SS benefits?
The only people who can legally collect benefits without paying into Social Security are family members of workers who have done so. Nonworking spouses, ex-spouses, offspring or parents may be eligible for spousal, survivor or children's benefits based on the qualifying worker's earnings record.
What is the lowest amount of Social Security?
The first full special minimum PIA in 1973 was $170 per month. Beginning in 1979, its value has increased with price growth and is $886 per month in 2020. The number of beneficiaries receiving the special minimum PIA has declined from about 200,000 in the early 1990s to about 32,100 in 2019.
What happens if you don't qualify for Social Security?
If you won't be able to qualify for Social Security and your retirement savings are coming up short as well, you may have to take some more aggressive steps. In addition to working as long as possible at your current job, you might have to take on a side gig that extends into your retirement years.