When an individual works and pays Social Security taxes, he or she can earn credits toward his or her Social Security benefits. A worker is able to earn up to four credits every year.
The number of work credits needed for family members to receive survivors benefits will depend on the worker’s age at the time of death. The younger the individual is, the fewer credits that individual needs to provide benefits to his or her survivors.
Even if a worker does not have enough credits, Social Security can issue benefits to his or her children or surviving spouse who cares for his or her children. The individual must have worked for one and one-half years – obtaining 6 work credits – within the three years prior to his or her death.