Georgia State Board of Funeral Service Practice Exam

How many working credits are required to qualify for Social Security Benefits?

1. 30 credits

2. 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last ten years

3. 35 credits

4. 25 credits, all within a lifetime

The correct answer is: 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last ten years

To qualify for Social Security benefits, an individual typically needs to earn 40 credits, with at least 20 of those credits earned in the last ten years before applying for benefits. This requirement ensures that individuals have a consistent work history close to the time they seek assistance, thus reflecting their current contributions to the Social Security system. Each year of work can earn a maximum of four credits, meaning that a person would need to work for at least ten years (earning the requisite credits) to accumulate the 40 credits necessary for qualification. This structure is designed to ensure that benefits are provided to individuals who have actively participated in the workforce, contributing to the system through payroll taxes. The other options suggest different credit requirements that do not align with the established rules set by the Social Security Administration.