hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Grants Social Security credit for up to 5 years of unpaid caregiving.
Senator Murphy (D-CT) and Senator Gillibrand (D-NY).
Introduced in the Senate, referred to committee.
Senators Chris Murphy (D-CT) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) introduced the "Social Security Caregiver Credit Act of 2026." This bill proposes to give Social Security credit, in the form of "deemed wages," to individuals who provide unpaid care for a child or chronically dependent relative for up to five years. It has been introduced in the Senate and sent to the Committee on Finance for review, meaning it's in the very early stages of the legislative process.
Introduced Apr 27, 2026
This bill was introduced in the Senate on April 27, 2026, by Senators Murphy and Gillibrand. It has been referred to the Senate Committee on Finance. Before it can become law, the committee must approve it, then the full Senate would need to pass it, followed by passage in the House of Representatives, and finally, the President's signature. It has not yet had any votes.
If this bill becomes law, individuals who provide unpaid care for certain dependent relatives could receive "deemed wages" for Social Security purposes, potentially increasing their future retirement benefits. This credit would apply for up to 60 "qualifying months" (five years) of care, provided the care is at least 80 hours per month and the caregiver is under retirement age. To receive these credits, caregivers would need to apply to the Social Security Administration, providing details about the dependent and, for chronically dependent individuals, a physician's documentation.
Supporters Say
Supporters argue this bill recognizes the vital service of unpaid caregivers and improves their financial security in retirement.
Critics Say
The bill text does not explicitly state arguments from critics.
The bill itself states that caregiving is an essential part of family life and a vital service for children, the ill, the disabled, and the elderly. Proponents believe that providing a caregiver credit would enhance the economic stability of unpaid caregivers and offer crucial retirement security. The bill's findings also acknowledge the Social Security trust fund's ability to pay benefits until 2034. The bill text does not include any arguments against the proposal.