As we move into 2025, many lawful permanent residents in the U.S.—also known as green card holders — are asking an important question: Can I receive Social Security benefits? The answer is yes, but there are specific rules and requirements that green card holders need to meet.
Here’s a complete breakdown of how Social Security works for permanent residents in 2025 and how to know if you’re eligible.
✅ Can Green Card Holders Get Social Security Benefits in 2025?
Yes — green card holders can qualify for Social Security benefits, just like U.S. citizens, as long as certain conditions are met. Social Security is not based on citizenship; it’s based on work history and contributions to the Social Security system through payroll taxes (FICA).
🧾 What Are the Eligibility Requirements?
To receive Social Security retirement or disability benefits in 2025 as a green card holder, you typically must:
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Have at least 10 years (40 quarters) of work in the U.S.
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During those years, you must have paid Social Security taxes through your job.
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Hold lawful permanent resident status (green card) at the time you apply for benefits.
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Meet age and/or disability criteria depending on the type of benefit:
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Retirement: Usually age 62 or older.
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Disability: Must meet SSA’s definition of disability and have sufficient work credits.
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Reside legally in the U.S. or meet certain residency requirements if applying while abroad.
🌍 What If I Worked Abroad Too?
If you worked in another country that has a Social Security agreement (totalization treaty) with the U.S., your foreign work history might count toward your eligibility.
Countries like Canada, the UK, Mexico, India, the Philippines, and many in the EU have agreements with the U.S. that can help immigrants qualify for benefits even if they haven’t worked in the U.S. for a full 10 years.
💵 What Types of Social Security Benefits Can Green Card Holders Receive?
Green card holders may qualify for:
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Retirement Benefits
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Disability Insurance (SSDI)
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Survivor Benefits (for family members of a deceased worker)
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Supplemental Security Income (SSI) – only under certain conditions
⚠️ Note on SSI:
SSI is need-based and generally requires at least 5 years of U.S. residency after becoming a green card holder. Some exceptions apply for certain refugees and other protected groups.
📅 When Should You Apply?
If you’re approaching retirement or think you may be eligible for disability, it’s a good idea to:
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Create a My Social Security account
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Review your work history and earnings
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Speak with a Social Security representative or an immigration attorney if you’re unsure
📌 Key Takeaways for 2025
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Green card holders can receive Social Security benefits if they’ve paid into the system.
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10 years of work (40 credits) is the standard requirement.
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International work agreements may help if you have foreign work history.
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SSI eligibility is more limited and depends on residency and financial need.
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Stay updated on SSA rules, especially if you’re living or retiring abroad.
🗣️ Final Word
If you’re a green card holder planning for retirement or applying for disability in 2025, understanding your Social Security eligibility is essential. The good news? You’ve earned the right to those benefits if you’ve contributed to the system.
Be proactive: check your credits, confirm your status, and apply when you qualify.
