My wife and I are 64. We are both Naturalized US citizens having emigrated from the UK to the USA around 8 years ago. We were both retired when we moved so neither of us have any SS work credits. I am considering taking a position with my son's US business which would mean I would start paying FICA taxes and accruing credits. If I work until I am at least 74 and earn the necessary 40 work credits will this make my wife and I eligible for SS and Medicare when I reach 74? Can I still apply for SS and Medicare at the age of 74 or will I have missed the enrollment window?

Hi,

Yes, you could start working now and potentially qualify for Social Security after you've earned at least 40 quarters of coverage. And, your wife could then potentially qualify for spousal benefits on your record.

However, since you are now U.S. citizens you and your wife can sign up for Medicare coverage at age 65 even if you've never worked in the U.S. The only difference is that you would both have to pay a monthly premium for Part A (inpatient hospital) coverage, which is otherwise premium free for people who are insured for Social Security benefits. And, if you don't file for Medicare when you are first eligible at age 65, you will have to pay premium surcharge if you enroll later. For more information on Medicare, refer to Social Security's website: https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/.

By the way, the U.S. Social Security program has a totalization agreement with the U.K., which could result in you qualifying for Social Security benefits with as few as 6 quarters of coverage, assuming that you have enough work credits under the U.K. system. For more information on totalization benefits, refer to this Social Security publication: https://www.ssa.gov/international/Agreement_Pamphlets/uk.html.

Best, Jerry