The Social Security Disability in the US program, administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA), provides financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a disabling condition. The process of applying for SSDI can be complex, with specific eligibility requirements that applicants must meet. Understanding these requirements is essential to determine whether you or a loved one may qualify for this important benefit.

This article explores the key eligibility requirements for breaking them down into two main categories: medical criteria and work history.

1. Medical Eligibility: Proving a Disabling Condition

The primary criterion for receiving SSDI benefits is that the applicant must have a disability that meets the SSA’s strict definition. Under SSA guidelines, a disability  is defined as a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that:

  • Has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months, or
  • Is expected to result in death.

It is important to note that short-term disabilities or conditions that may improve over time generally do not qualify. To ensure consistency in its evaluations, the SSA maintains a list of medical conditions that automatically qualify as severe enough to be considered disabling. This is known as the Blue Book or Listing of Impairments. Some conditions listed in the Blue Book include:

  • Cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Chronic respiratory disorders
  • Musculoskeletal disorders (e.g., severe back injuries, arthritis)
  • Neurological conditions (e.g., multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease)
  • Severe mental disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, major depression)

If your condition is not explicitly listed, you may still qualify, but you will need to provide extensive medical evidence showing that your condition is equivalent in severity to a listed impairment.

Walker Firm, operating under the client-facing brand Casa de la Justicia, helps Spanish-speaking clients with their Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claims. Based in Los Angeles, CA, and founded in 2022, we maintain a remarkable over 70% hearing win rate, surpassing the national average of 55%. With our robust media strategy, we attract over 2,000 clients annually. In addition, we partner with other local attorneys to ensure the thousands of injured Latinos that call us daily have access to experienced Spanish-speaking attorneys for all their needs, including worker’s compensation, auto accidents and slip and fall cases. For expert SSDI support and broader legal services, we are your go-to resource.

In all cases, you must prove that the disability prevents you from engaging in “substantial gainful activity” (SGA). In 2024, the threshold for SGA is earning more than $1,470 per month ($2,460 for blind individuals). If you are able to work and earn more than these amounts, the SSA will likely determine that you do not qualify for benefits.

2. Work History: Earning Sufficient Work Credits

Aside from proving that you have a qualifying medical condition, you must also demonstrate a sufficient work history to be eligible for SSDI benefits. The SSA uses a system of work credits to measure an individual’s work history. In general:

  • You can earn up to four credits per year based on your total yearly wages or self-employment income.
  • In 2024, one work credit is earned for every $1,640 of income.

To qualify for SSDI, you must have earned enough work credits, and the specific number of credits required varies depending on your age when you become disabled. Typically, you need:

  • 40 work credits, with at least 20 earned in the last 10 years before becoming disabled, if you are aged 31 or older.
  • Younger individuals may qualify with fewer credits. For example:
    • If you become disabled before age 24, you only need 6 work credits earned in the 3 years prior to becoming disabled.
    • If you become disabled between ages 24 and 31, you need credits for half the time between age 21 and when you became disabled (e.g., if you are 27, you need 3 years or 12 work credits).

It’s worth noting that these work credits are generally only relevant to SSDI applicants. For individuals who lack sufficient work history, the SSA also offers Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which has different eligibility criteria and is based on financial need rather than work history.

3. Additional Eligibility Considerations

Several other factors can influence your eligibility for SSDI benefits:

  • Age: While there is no upper age limit for SSDI, individuals who reach full retirement age (typically 66 or 67) will no longer receive SSDI. Instead, their benefits will convert into Social Security retirement benefits.
  • Non-Citizens: Non-U.S. citizens may qualify for SSDI, but they must meet specific residency and work history requirements. Generally, non-citizens must be legally present in the U.S. and have worked long enough under the Social Security system to qualify.
  • Family Benefits: If you qualify for SSDI, your spouse and children may also be eligible for benefits, provided they meet certain criteria. These are known as auxiliary benefits and are designed to provide financial support to family members who rely on the disabled worker’s income.
  • Continuing Disability Reviews (CDR): Once approved for SSDI, your case will be periodically reviewed to confirm that you are still disabled and unable to work. The frequency of these reviews depends on your medical condition and the likelihood of improvement.

Applying for Social Security Disability benefits involves meeting stringent criteria related to both your medical condition and work history. While the process can be challenging, understanding the eligibility requirements can help you prepare a stronger application. If you believe you may qualify for SSDI, consulting with a disability attorney or advocate can provide valuable guidance through the process, increasing your chances of a successful outcome.

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