Social security disability concepts
The necessary income level for receiving social security benefits credits rises a bit each year; as of 2008, you receive one credit for every $1,050 you earn. You can receive a maximum of four credits annually (which is why credits are also called 'quarters'), and any credits you earn will remain on your record even during periods in which you're not working. In order to qualify for social security benefits, you need to reach a certain number of credits. The number of credits you need for social security is based on your current age, and is calculated by the number of years you have worked. Most people looking to qualify for retirement social security benefits (that is, over the age of 62) will need 40 credits, or 10 years of work, to be eligible for benefits.