A worker can earn up to four credits each year  For instance, In 2019 your wife can earn one credit for each $ 1,360 of wages or self - employment income .
So she needs to make over $5000 to get her 4 credits?
When your wife has earned $ 5,440 she will have earned her four credits for the year
can parents get benefits if a child they live with dies?
Are these dependent parents?
yes they are
Okay, so If you are the dependent parent who is at least age 62 of a worker who dies you may be eligible to receive Social Security survivors benefits .
So that's all they need and they qualify?
They may qualify.  If they are at least 62 then we would need more information to see if they qualify
okay and what about any children other than her own?