Is Buying Social Security Credits Allowed?

Can someone buy into Social Security

No. You can't buy , the income-based building blocks of benefit eligibility. You can't borrow them or transfer them from someone else's record. In 2022, you earn one credit for each $1,510 in income from “covered” work. That's work where you paid into the Social Security system via payroll withholding or . You can earn up to, but no more than, four credits each calendar year. Qualifying for Social Security retirement benefits requires 40 credits, so most people qualify after a decade in the workforce. However, no time or age limit is in place on collecting credits. No matter how long it takes or how old you are, you still will qualify for retirement benefits if you reach 40 credits. There's just no way to get the credits except by working.

Keep in mind

If you are you must make at least $1,510 in net income to collect a Social Security credit. For wage earners, credits are based on gross earnings. Updated December 27, 2021

More on Social Security Eligibility

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