US Social Security Benefits Threatened by 35‑Year Rule

A long‑standing Social Security rule requires workers to have 35 years of covered earnings to receive full retirement benefits. Those with shorter work histories may see their benefits reduced or eliminated. The rule impacts a large share of retirees: roughly 39 % of men and 44 % of older women receive at least half of their monthly income from Social Security, and more than 10 % depend on it for 90 % or more of their earnings. Critics say the rule, reinforced during the Trump administration, could cause many seniors to lose essential income.

The potential loss highlights ongoing concerns about the program’s adequacy for workers with intermittent or limited employment records.