This Is Exactly How Much You Have to Earn to Qualify for Social Security Eligibility in 2026

Core Insights - Social Security benefits are not guaranteed and require individuals to earn work credits through paying Social Security tax [1][9] - In 2026, the earnings required to qualify for a work credit will increase to $1,890, up from $1,810 in 2025 [4] - The maximum earnings to obtain four work credits in 2026 will be $7,560, compared to $7,240 in 2025 [5] Earnings Requirements - To earn a work credit in 2026, individuals must earn $1,890 in wages subject to Social Security tax, reflecting an increase of $80 from the previous year [4] - The maximum earnings for four credits in 2026 will be $7,560, which is an increase of $320 from 2025 [5][6] Importance of Tracking Earnings - Individuals can monitor their earnings record through their mySocialSecurity account to ensure they are on track to qualify for Social Security benefits [7] - The required earnings for work credits will continue to change annually due to inflation, making it essential for individuals to stay informed about these changes for retirement planning [8]