How many quarters are required to obtain a fully insured status for Social Security benefits?

To obtain fully insured status for Social Security benefits, an individual must earn a total of 40 quarters of coverage. A quarter of coverage is earned when an individual earns a certain amount of income, which is adjusted annually. Once a person accumulates 40 quarters, they are considered fully insured and eligible for various Social Security benefits, including retirement, disability, and survivors' benefits.

This requirement is a fundamental aspect of the U.S. Social Security system, ensuring that individuals have a significant work history before receiving benefits. The accumulation of quarters is designed to reflect a person's lifetime work experience, ensuring that benefits are given to those who have contributed to the system over time.