In the United States, the Social Security program is the economic lifeline for more than 70 million people, and a large part of them are retirees who depend on this income every month for the payment of bills, the purchase of food, the upkeep of their homes or simply to maintain a certain financial stability. For many, the check that arrives from the federal government is not a supplement, but their sole source of income, so any delay or interruption can have real and worrying consequences.
Given this level of importance, it is logical that certain conditions exist in order to access the benefit. Although it is an earned right, Social Security retirement is not automatic: in order to collect it, it is necessary to have worked, paid contributions and meet some criteria established by the Social Security Administration (SSA). As of May 2025, these requirements are still in force, and those who do not meet them will simply not be able to get their payment. Below, we review exactly what they are.
Social Security requirements for May 2025
In order to get a Social Security retirement check in May 2025, the first fundamental requirement is to have worked enough to generate credits. The Social Security Administration states that at least 40 work credits must be accumulated, which is equivalent to approximately 10 years of work with registered contributions.
In addition to the years worked, another key requirement is the retirement age. Although it is possible to start receiving the benefit from the age of 62, doing so at that age implies accepting a permanent reduction in the monthly amount. On the other hand, to get the full check, you must have reached the so-called full retirement age, which in 2025 will be 67 for those born in 1960 or later.
No less important is the current status of the beneficiary. If the person has not formally applied for the benefit, or if there is a problem with personal, banking or tax information, the payment may not be issued. It is therefore advisable to keep information updated with the SSA and confirm that everything is in order, especially around the time the monthly check is sent.
So not everyone who wants to collect Social Security can do so if they do not comply with these basic points. The system is based on contributions and age, and any error or non-compliance can lead to suspension or inability to access retirement. For May 2025, the rules do not change, and it is important to be clear about this.