10 years
Anyone born in 1929 or later needs 10 years of work (40 credits) to be eligible for retirement benefits.

When did retirees start paying taxes on Social Security?

A: The Social Security Act was signed by FDR on 8/14/35. Taxes were collected for the first time in January 1937 and the first one-time, lump-sum payments were made that same month. Regular ongoing monthly benefits started in January 1940.

If you were born in 1929 or later, you need 40 credits (10 years of work). If you stop working before you have enough credits to qualify for benefits, the credits will remain on your Social Security record. If you return to work later, you can add more credits to qualify.

What happens to Social Security benefits if you turn 62?

Now it applies at any age up to 70, if you turned 62 after January 1, 2016. Second, if you take your retirement benefit and then ask (on or after April 30, 2016) to suspend it to earn delayed retirement credits, your spouse or dependents generally won’t be able to receive benefits on your Social Security record during the suspension.

How old do you have to be to file for Social Security at 62?

This “deemed filing” used to apply only before the full retirement age, which is currently 66. Now it applies at any age up to 70, if you turned 62 after January 1, 2016.

When to stop taking social security at full retirement age?

In particular, if you are or will be full retirement age (66) or older before April 30, and you think you want to suspend your benefits, contact us as soon as possible before April 30. But remember, if you want to let your retirement benefit grow, you can simply delay taking it, up to age 70.

What to know about the new laws for claiming social security?

For more information about these changes in the law, please visit Recent Social Security Claiming Changes and Retirement Planner. Deciding when to start your Social Security benefits is a complex and personal decision.