What can lead to a worker losing eligibility for Social Security benefits?

A worker may lose eligibility for Social Security benefits primarily due to a lack of sufficient work credits. Work credits are earned through a worker's employment and contributions to the Social Security system, and they are essential in determining eligibility for various types of benefits, including retirement, disability, and survivors' benefits. To qualify for these benefits, a worker needs to accumulate a certain number of credits, which can be earned based on their earnings and employment history. If a worker does not have enough credits, they will not be eligible to receive benefits.

In contrast, being self-employed does not impact one's eligibility for benefits as long as the individual pays self-employment taxes, which contribute to their Social Security coverage. Reaching retirement age does not cause a loss of benefits; rather, it is often the time when individuals start receiving retirement benefits if they are eligible. Finally, receiving unemployment benefits does not affect Social Security eligibility, as these benefits are separate and do not count against a worker's work credits or place any limitations on future Social Security benefits.