If you are applying for Social Security Disability benefits, you may be wondering how quarters of coverage (QCs) are credited and what is required for eligibility.
According to § 404.143 of the Social Security Administration (SSA) guidelines, QCs are credited for calendar years after 1977 based on the total wages paid and self-employment income credited to you during that year.
In this article, we will explain how QCs are credited, the limitations on crediting QCs, and when QCs are assigned to a specific calendar quarter for eligibility purposes.
Crediting Quarters of Coverage
For calendar years after 1977, the SSA credits you with a QC for each part of the total wages paid and self-employment income credited to you that equals the amount required for a QC in that year. The amount required for a QC is determined by the Commissioner each year and is published in the Federal Register.
For example, if the total of your wages and self-employment income for a calendar year is more than twice but less than 3 times the amount required for a QC in that year, you will be credited with only 2 QCs for the year. Additionally, the SSA cannot credit you with more than four QCs for any calendar year.
Assigning Quarters of Coverage
The SSA assigns QCs credited under § 404.143 to a specific calendar quarter in the calendar year only if the assignment is necessary for eligibility purposes. This includes giving you fully or currently insured status, entitling you to a computation or recomputation of your primary insurance amount, or allowing you to establish a period of disability.
Limitations on Quarters of Coverage
It is important to note that the rules for crediting QCs in § 404.143 are subject to the limitations outlined in § 404.146. This section explains when a calendar quarter cannot be a QC, such as when you receive disability payments for the entire quarter or when you are imprisoned for the entire quarter.
Conclusion: Understanding how QCs are credited and assigned is essential for anyone seeking Social Security Disability benefits. As a Social Security Disability advocate, it is important to educate clients on the complex rules and regulations of the program and help them navigate the application process. By understanding how QCs are credited and assigned, individuals can better understand their eligibility for benefits and receive the support they need.
At Hugo Fierro & Michael Perez, our team possesses the expertise to provide comprehensive guidance on matters concerning your social security disability claim. We are committed to assisting you in comprehending the intricate details of the process, allowing you to make informed decisions throughout.