Certified Financial Consultant (CFC) Practice Exam

What is the required number of credits for fully insured status under Social Security disability benefits?

1. 30

2. 40

3. 50

4. 60

The correct answer is: 40

To achieve fully insured status under Social Security disability benefits, an individual must have accumulated a total of 40 credits. In the context of Social Security, credits are earned based on an individual's work history and the amount of money they have made during their employment. As of 2023, individuals earn one credit for each quarter of work in which they meet a minimum earnings threshold, up to a maximum of four credits per year. Having 40 credits typically means that an individual has worked for at least ten years, although there are special provisions for younger workers. This number of credits is designed to ensure that applicants have a significant work history and have contributed to the Social Security system, thereby qualifying them for disability benefits when they are unable to work due to a severe medical condition. This reflects the program's intent to aid those who have contributed to it during their working years. In contrast, options such as 30, 50, or 60 credits are insufficient or excessive in the framework of the Social Security disability benefits program. With a requirement of 40 credits, these other options do not meet the program's eligibility criteria.