Overview: This bill amends Title II of the Social Security Act to allow individuals who leave work to serve as caregivers to earn Social Security benefits based on what would have been their wages, for up to five years. The intent is to prevent them from being financially disadvantaged if they take time out of their career for caregiving.

Eligible Family Caregivers

Eligible caregivers are those who provide at least 80 hours of care per month to a dependent relative. They must document the specifics of the caregiving relationship.

Amount of Catch-up Contribution

Individuals may earn Social Security credits for each month during which they were engaged in at least 80 hours of family caregiving without monetary compensation. They can earn up to 50% of the national average wage index for up to 60 qualifying months.

Financing & Implementation

Program Administration

Social Security Administration

Revenue Source(s)

Not specified

Program Cost Estimate

Not specified

Bill #: H.R. 3729

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Tagged Retirement/Social Security