Hi -
At one time, social security required a person to have 40 quarters of coverage (which normally took about ten years) to earn full benefits - my question:

If a 20 year old, worked for ten years, earned the 40 qtrs of coverage, and then never worked a day in his life again - when he turned 65 - would he still be eligible for full SS benefits, or must the 40 qtrs of coverage be earned immediately proceeding his retirement at 65?

Thanks

HIC

Nope its any 40 qtrs of coverage that you paid into the system. You can request a record of your SS payments and estimates of your benefits at any time for free.

Very helpful! Thanks

I am no expert but I know that the years of no earnings (after the 40 quarters are completed and until retirement age is reached which would be about 35 years or more in the example you cited) are used in the formula. In other words your 10 years of earnings would be divided by a total available work life of 45 years even though you only worked 10 years. Also, the 40 quarters (if it is still in effect) is qualify for a minimum benefit amount, not maximum. And, of course the rules will change dramatically before a 20 or 30 year old gets to retirement age.

Excellent answer also! Thanks to all!