As a general rule, I understand to obtain retirement benefits, you must pay into Social Security for at least a total of 40 3-month calendar quarters throughout your entire work history. There are exceptions to this rule. Try using this https://www.ssa.gov/prepare/check-eligibility-for-benefits to determine your eligibility.
Hi, thanks so much for replying. I have enough quarters (I've been working since I was 15). My concern is not having my ihss earnings count toward my calculation for the amount of social security I would receive upon retirement. My adult child receives close to the maximum IHSS hours, so it's a decent portion of income. As her live in provider, I don't receive a W2 at all. The IRS rule reads this income is exempt from FIT and SIT, but not FICA and Medicare. IHSS claims because recipient is my child, I cannot pay into FICA and Medicare, which seems contradictory.
@mamasquid wrote:The IRS rule reads this income is exempt from FIT and SIT, but not FICA and Medicare. IHSS claims because recipient is my child, I cannot pay into FICA and Medicare, which seems contradictory.
There is another IRS rule for this situation, and because you are considered your child's "household employee", you (the employer's parent) are not subject to Social Security and Medicare taxes (FICA).
Because you are not subject to FICA (or self employment tax), that income does not count towards your Social Security income.