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Kiplinger
Kiplinger
Business
Patrick M. Simasko, J.D.

What Are Social Security Credits, and How Do They Work?

An older woman holds a coffee cup while she thoughtfully looks out her window.

Social Security has been a hot topic of conversation for years. Essentially, you pay into the system throughout your working years, then collect those benefits once you’re eligible.

Social Security checks primarily serve as an income stream for retirees, but benefits can also be claimed for people who are disabled or widowed. Regardless of the type of Social Security you claim, you must earn those checks through a system of credits.

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