Can You Still Receive US Social Security After Working Abroad in 2025?
In 2025, with a record number of Americans living and working overseas—over 9 million according to the U.S. State Department—the question is more relevant than ever: Can you still receive US Social Security after working abroad in 2025?
The answer is yes, but it depends. Your eligibility hinges on a combination of factors: how many U.S. work credits you’ve earned, the country you’ve worked in, and whether that country has a totalization agreement with the United States. Here’s what you need to know, based on the most current regulations and international agreements.
Earning US Social Security Benefits: The Basics
To qualify for U.S. Social Security benefits, you need to earn 40 work credits, typically equivalent to 10 years of U.S.-based employment. In 2025, you earn 1 credit for every $1,730 in wages, up to a maximum of 4 credits per year.
| Requirement | 2025 Standard |
|---|---|
| Work Credits Needed | 40 |
| Max Credits per Year | 4 |
| Earnings per Credit | $1,730 |
If you worked in the U.S. before going abroad and earned enough credits, you may already qualify. But even if you didn’t reach the threshold, you might still be eligible—thanks to international agreements.
What Is a Totalization Agreement?
A totalization agreement is a bilateral treaty between the U.S. and another country that prevents dual taxation and coordinates Social Security benefits. As of August 2025, the U.S. has such agreements with 30 countries, including:
| Country | Totalization Status | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Canada | Active | Combines CPP and SSA credits |
| Germany | Active | Applies to both retirement and disability |
| South Korea | Active | Up to 5 years of credit sharing |
| United Kingdom | Active | Brexit did not affect agreement |
| Australia | Active | Especially useful for dual citizens |
If you worked in both the U.S. and a partner country, your credits may be combined to help you qualify for benefits. You’ll only receive payments from the country where you’re claiming retirement, based on a proportion of your work history.
What If You Lived Abroad for Years?
Even if you haven’t lived in the U.S. for decades, you may still receive Social Security benefits. Here are key things to know in 2025:
- You don’t have to be a U.S. resident to collect benefits. Over 700,000 retirees receive checks abroad.
- Payments can be sent to over 150 countries, provided you’re eligible and the destination country isn’t subject to Treasury restrictions (e.g., North Korea, Cuba).
- You must report address changes and may be subject to additional verification.
How Your Benefit Amount Might Be Affected
Living or working abroad doesn’t always reduce your benefit—but some exceptions apply:
- Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP)
If you also receive a foreign pension from a non-covered job (one that didn’t pay into Social Security), your U.S. benefit may be reduced under WEP. - Government Pension Offset (GPO)
This can impact spousal or survivor benefits if you receive a foreign government pension. - Currency and Payment Delays
Exchange rate fluctuations and international banking regulations can cause payment delays or small value changes, especially in non-dollar-denominated countries.
FAQ: Receiving US Social Security After Working Abroad in 2025
Q: I worked in France for 20 years and the U.S. for 7 years. Can I still qualify?
A: Yes, if France is part of a totalization agreement (which it is), your work credits can be combined to meet eligibility requirements.
Q: Will I be taxed on Social Security payments if I live overseas?
A: Possibly. The U.S. taxes its citizens on global income, including Social Security. Some countries may also tax your benefits unless a tax treaty prevents double taxation.
Q: Do I need a U.S. bank account to receive payments?
A: No. You can receive direct deposits in many foreign banks via international wire or through U.S. embassies’ financial liaison systems.
Q: What if the country I live in doesn’t have a totalization agreement?
A: You’ll need to meet the full U.S. work credit requirement (40 credits) to qualify.
Key Considerations for Expats
| Scenario | Impact | Suggested Action |
|---|---|---|
| You worked <10 years in the U.S. | Might not qualify without agreement | Check totalization eligibility |
| You plan to retire in Thailand | No agreement, but benefits are payable | Ensure you have full U.S. credits |
| You’re a dual U.S./UK citizen | Agreement in place | Combine work credits for max benefit |
| You receive foreign government pension | May trigger WEP/GPO | Calculate potential reduction |
How to Claim Your Benefits from Abroad
- Check eligibility through SSA’s international operations
Website: SSA.gov/international - File an application via:
- Online (if eligible)
- U.S. Embassy or consulate
- By mail
- Submit proof of age, citizenship, and international earnings
Once approved, payments will be made monthly, just as if you were living in the U.S.
What You Should Do in 2025
- Review your work history in both the U.S. and foreign countries
- Get a benefit estimate using SSA tools or a certified financial planner
- Explore totalization and tax treaties for the country where you plan to retire
- Stay compliant with IRS rules if you remain a U.S. citizen abroad
If you’re planning retirement abroad and want a personalized strategy to secure and optimize your Social Security and pension benefits, let me know—I’ll help you generate a retirement migration + tax strategy guide tailored to your situation.
