Social Security has been a fundamental tool in the recent history of the United States. Since its creation, it has served to guarantee income for those who, due to age or disability, can no longer work. It not only represents financial help, but also a form of recognition for a lifetime of work.
Both retirement payments and disability payments have a deep emotional and practical value. For many families, these payments are the only stable source of income. Thanks to them, millions of Americans can maintain a certain quality of life, pay their basic expenses, and live with a little more peace of mind.
However, the fact that Social Security is present in so many lives does not mean that everyone is entitled to it. There are clear rules that define who can apply for benefits. Those who do not belong to the group of people who meet the minimum requirements simply cannot access this help.
Groups that get Social Security
The Social Security Administration sets precise criteria for granting retirement or disability benefits. In general, you must have worked long enough in jobs covered by this system and have made adequate contributions during those years.
People who can receive Social Security payments belong to these groups:
- Workers who have contributed to the system for at least 10 years.
- People who have accumulated 40 work credits, which is usually equivalent to 10 years of employment.
- Those who reach the minimum retirement age, starting at age 62.
- Citizens with a certified disability that prevents them from working and who have met the contribution requirements.
- Widowed spouses, widows, or dependents of workers who did meet the requirements.
Those who do not fall into any of these groups cannot apply for Social Security payments, either for retirement or disability. This program was designed for those who have contributed to the system through their employment.
Other Social Security payments: Extra money each month
Beyond the main benefit, there is additional help for people with low incomes. One of these is the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, which can be added to Social Security benefits in certain cases.
These are the requirements to get monthly SSI payments:
- Be 65 or older, or have a disability that meets government criteria.
- Have limited income, both from work and other sources.
- Have resources below the established limits.
- Be a U.S. citizen or meet certain immigration requirements.
- Live in the country and not have been outside the United States for more than 30 consecutive days.
SSI payments can provide a significant monthly amount. In 2025, an individual can get up to $967 and a couple up to $1,450, depending on their situation. That is why it is essential to understand who is eligible for this type of support. Social Security cannot be applied for lightly: it requires a solid foundation of contributions, time worked, and, in some cases, the presence of an officially recognized disability.
