Understanding SSDI and Its Requirements

SSDI is a program designed to provide financial assistance to people who are disabled and unable to work. To qualify for SSDI, you generally must have a work history where you have paid Social Security taxes through your employment. This work history is measured by work credits that you earn through your job.

• Work Credits: You can earn up to four credits per year, and you need to have earned enough credits over your lifetime to be eligible for SSDI.
• Typically, 40 credits are required to qualify for SSDI, with 20 of those credits earned in the last 10 years.

Can You Get SSDI Without a Work History?

If you have never worked or have a limited work history, you generally cannot qualify for SSDI. SSDI is based on the premise that you have worked and paid into the Social Security system long enough to earn benefits. However, there are some important details to consider:

• Minimal Work History: If you have worked for some time but not enough to meet the required work credits, you may still not qualify for SSDI.
• Younger Applicants: If you are under a certain age, you may need fewer work credits. For example, someone younger than 24 might need as few as 6 credits (about 1.5 years of work) to qualify for SSDI.

If You Haven’t Worked, Can You Apply for SSI?

If you’ve never worked or don’t have enough work credits to qualify for SSDI, you may still qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI is a needs-based program, meaning it does not require a work history. It is for people who have limited income and resources and are either disabled, blind, or age 65 or older.

Eligibility for SSI:

• Disability: You must meet the SSA’s definition of disability, meaning you cannot perform substantial gainful activity due to a medical condition expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
• Income and Resources: SSI eligibility is based on financial need. You must have limited income and resources (e.g., savings, assets).

For SSI, there is no requirement for work credits; it is solely based on your financial situation.

Step 4: Applying for SSI if You Have Never Worked

If you are applying for SSI because you have never worked or don't have enough work history, the process is similar to applying for SSDI, but instead of focusing on your work credits, the SSA will focus on your income and resources, as well as your medical condition.

Here’s what you will need to do for SSI:

• Submit a Disability Claim: You will need to provide medical evidence showing that you have a disability that meets the SSA's criteria.
• Provide Financial Information: You’ll need to provide detailed information about your income, assets, and resources. The SSA will assess whether your financial situation meets the eligibility requirements.