How to Correct Missing Social Security Earnings

I have an individual who turned 65 in January and was trying to sign up for Medicare Part A. He has 38 credits but realized his 1986 earnings are not presented on the statement from the SSA. He cannot locate his records – W2, tax return, etc. Do you know how to correct a statement that is that old? Any advice?

Unfortunately, without proof of earnings, Social Security will not add those missing earnings to his record. If the company he worked for in 1986 is still in existence, they may have records that can help. SSA can use employer records to update his earnings history.

If your client had earnings last year, he should present his W-2 or Schedule SE to SSA, and they can post the earnings right away. If he needs to use earnings from 2023, he should have his employer provide proof of earnings equaling $3,280, allowing him to have two quarters of credits posted immediately. This will help him meet the credit requirements for Medicare.

In the meantime, he can opt for premium Part A. Since he has more than 29 credits, he will qualify for the discounted rate of $274 plus his Part B premium. This solution ensures that he can start receiving Medicare benefits while addressing the missing earnings from 1986.