You must earn at least 40 Social Security credits to qualify for Social Security benefits. You earn Social Security credits when you work and pay Social Security taxes.
How many credits do I need for disability benefits?
Do you want to know the disability benefit requirements?
No, I just want to understand the credit system.
How do I earn those credits?
Are you working and do you pay Social Security taxes?
Yes, to both.
In that case you earn up to a maximum of four credits per year.
What if I'm already receiving retirement benefits and I die?