How many credits can you earn in a year for Social Security?

You can earn a maximum of 4 credits in a year for Social Security. Credits are a way the Social Security Administration tracks your earnings and work history, which are essential for determining your eligibility for benefits. As of 2023, you earn one credit for every $1,640 in covered earnings, up to a maximum of four credits per year, regardless of how much you earn beyond that threshold. This system ensures that individuals who work steadily have enough credits to qualify for retirement, disability, or survivors benefits. Therefore, earning 4 credits per year is the maximum allowed and correctly reflects the structure of how credits are allocated in the Social Security system.