How SSDI Eligibility Works

To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked long enough and recently enough to earn Social Security credits. These credits are earned by paying Social Security taxes through your work. Generally, the more years you work, the more credits you can accumulate.

• Work Requirements for SSDI: The number of credits needed to qualify for SSDI depends on your age at the time you become disabled. Most applicants need to have 40 credits, with 20 of those credits earned in the last 10 years prior to their disability. If you have worked for 10 years, you would typically have 40 credits, meaning you would likely meet the basic requirement.
• Younger Workers: If you are younger than 31, you may need fewer credits to qualify. For example, if you’re under 24, you may need just 6 credits earned in the 3 years prior to your disability.

Does Your Disability Meet the SSA’s Requirements?

Even if you meet the work history requirements, the Social Security Administration (SSA) must still determine whether your disability qualifies. The SSA has a strict process for evaluating your disability:

• Your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months or be expected to result in death.
• The SSA uses a Listing of Impairments, which is a list of conditions that automatically qualify for SSDI if they meet the specific criteria. If your condition is not listed, you will need to show that it is functionally equivalent to one of the listed conditions.

How to Strengthen Your SSDI Case After Working for 10 Years

Even if you have worked for 10 years, your SSDI claim will depend on how well you can document your disability. Here are a few tips to improve your chances of success:

• Gather Medical Evidence: The SSA needs thorough and detailed medical records that demonstrate how your disability affects your ability to work. Visit your doctor regularly and keep all medical records up to date.
• Follow Your Doctor’s Treatment Plan: Make sure you follow the treatment and care prescribed by your doctor. Failure to do so may raise questions about the severity of your condition.
• Provide Work History and Job Details: Be clear about your previous jobs and job duties. The SSA will assess whether you can perform your past work, or if your condition prevents you from doing so.

What if You Don’t Meet the Work Credit Requirements?

If you have not worked enough years to qualify for SSDI, you may still be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a program designed for individuals with limited income and resources. SSI doesn’t have the same work history requirements as SSDI, but you must still meet the SSA’s disability criteria.