Legal immigrants in the US are eligible for social security under specific circumstances. These circumstances include;
- If they meet the SSA’s social security work credit requirements (i.e. they’ve earned at least 40 work credits in the country. You acquire 40 credits in 10 years if you earn 4 credits every year)
- If an immigrant has earned the equivalent of US’s social security work credits through their employment history in a country with whom the US has entered into a “totalization agreement.”
Here’s how you can qualify for social security in the US.
Get Your SSN
First, you need to get your SSN. You can either apply for your SSN (social security number) during the immigration or personally visit a Social Security office to learn about the required process. Before providing you with a social security number the SSA representatives may ask you to fill out the SS-5 social security form.
Getting a social security number is also important for anyone looking for a job in the US. The employer may ask you for your SSN to ensure you’re allowed to work here and they’ll provide information about your salary to the federal government to help them provide you social security credits accordingly.
Earn the Credits
Once you get your SSN, start working in the US and set a target to achieve 40 credits as soon as you can. Remember that you need to work for at least 10 years to meet the SSA work credit requirement.
How the SSA Calculates an Individual’s Social Security Benefits
The number of benefits you receive on social security depends upon your age when you sign up for the benefits and your average earnings during the 35 years that represent your highest earnings.
The SSA evaluates your AIME (Average Indexed Monthly Earnings) to decide and calculate your PIA (primary insurance amount).
Want to Learn More?
Lisa Douglas is a renowned social security lawyer in Little Rock whocan help you navigate the US’s social security system. At The Law Offices of Lisa Douglas, you can also find legal supportto apply for your benefits so you can cover your expenses after retirement. If you need legal support from lawyers in Little Rock, Arkansas, contact us today.
Disclaimer: This blog is only intended for educational purposes and shouldn’t be used as a substitute for legal advice.
