Determine if You Qualify for SSDI

Before applying for SSDI, you need to ensure you meet the eligibility requirements. To qualify for SSDI, you must meet the following criteria:

• Work History: You must have worked a certain number of years and paid Social Security taxes. The number of work credits required depends on your age and when your disability occurred. Generally, you need at least 20 work credits over the past 10 years.
  
• Disability: You must have a medical condition that is severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work and that is expected to last for at least one year or result in death. The SSA uses a disability determination process to evaluate whether your condition qualifies.
  
• Current Employment Status: You cannot be earning more than a specific amount from working (the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit) while applying for SSDI. As of 2025, the SGA limit is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,460 for blind individuals.

Gather Necessary Documentation

Before you start your application, make sure you have all the required documents. Having everything ready can speed up the process and reduce delays. Some of the key documents you’ll need include:

• Proof of Identity: Social Security number, birth certificate, or passport.
• Medical Records: Detailed documentation of your disability, including doctor’s notes, test results, and treatments you’ve received. This evidence will help the SSA evaluate the severity and duration of your condition.
• Work History: Pay stubs, W-2 forms, and other employment records to prove that you’ve worked and earned enough to qualify for SSDI.
• Financial Information: Although SSDI is not means-tested like SSI, the SSA may ask for information about your income and resources for processing purposes.

Complete the SSDI Application

Once you have all your documents, you can begin the application process. There are a few ways to apply for SSDI:

Online Application

The most convenient and fastest way to apply for SSDI is through the Social Security Administration (SSA) website:

• Visit the SSA’s official website at www.ssa.gov.
• Navigate to the SSDI application page and create an account if you don’t already have one.
• Follow the prompts to fill out your application, providing all necessary information about your disability, work history, and medical condition.

Phone Application

If you prefer not to apply online or need assistance, you can apply over the phone by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. An SSA representative will guide you through the application process.

In-Person Application

You can also apply in person at your local SSA office. If you need help completing the application or have questions about the process, a representative can assist you. Use the SSA’s website or call the toll-free number to find your nearest office.

Wait for the SSA’s Decision

After you submit your application, the SSA will review your case. This process can take several months, as the SSA needs to gather information and review your medical records. During this time, the SSA may:

• Contact your doctors or healthcare providers to verify the information provided in your application.
• Review your work history to determine whether you qualify for SSDI.
• Assess your medical condition to determine whether it meets SSA’s disability criteria.

You’ll receive a written decision from the SSA about whether your claim was approved or denied. If your claim is approved, you’ll begin receiving SSDI benefits. If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal.

What to Do If Your SSDI Claim Is Denied

Unfortunately, many SSDI applications are initially denied. If your claim is denied, don’t lose hope. You can appeal the decision at several stages:

• Request for Reconsideration: The SSA will review your case again, possibly with new medical evidence or documentation.
  
• Request a Hearing: If your claim is denied at the reconsideration stage, you can request a hearing in front of an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). The ALJ will review your case and make a new decision.
  
• Appeal to the Appeals Council: If the ALJ denies your claim, you can request a review by the SSA’s Appeals Council.
  
• Federal Court: As a last resort, you can take your case to federal court. A judge will review the SSA’s decision and may issue a ruling.