Understanding SSDI Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for SSDI, you must meet both work history requirements and medical criteria:

• Work History: SSDI is based on your work credits, which you earn by working and paying Social Security taxes. Generally, you need to have worked for a certain number of years to qualify for SSDI benefits. The number of credits you need depends on your age at the time you become disabled. For example, if you are under 31, you may only need 6 credits, while those over 31 may need up to 20 credits.
• Medical Criteria: To qualify for SSDI, you must have a severe medical condition that significantly impairs your ability to work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. The SSA requires medical evidence from doctors to verify your condition and demonstrate how it prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA).

How Does Part-Time Employment Affect SSDI Eligibility?

While working full-time can prevent you from qualifying for SSDI, working part-time does not automatically disqualify you from benefits. The key factor is whether your earnings meet the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold set by the SSA. The SSA considers SGA as the income you earn through work that is sufficient to support yourself and indicates that you are able to work.

• For 2025, the SSA defines SGA as earning more than $1,470 per month (gross income) for non-blind individuals. If you are earning more than this amount, you may not qualify for SSDI, even if you are working part-time.
• If your income is below the SGA limit, you may still qualify for SSDI, even if you’re working part-time, as long as you can demonstrate that your condition limits your ability to engage in work at a level above the SGA threshold.

Can I Still Qualify for SSDI If I’m Not Working At All?

If you are not working at all due to your medical condition, you may still qualify for SSDI if you meet the work history requirements and can provide medical evidence of your disability. Even if you have stopped working full-time due to your illness, the SSA will look at your past work history to determine if you have earned enough work credits to qualify for SSDI benefits.

• No current employment doesn’t automatically disqualify you from SSDI as long as you have the required number of credits from previous work. You should still apply for SSDI if you meet the medical requirements, even if you’re not currently employed.

The Role of Medical Evidence in Your SSDI Application

For SSDI approval, the most important factor is the medical evidence showing that your condition prevents you from working. The SSA evaluates your ability to perform work-related activities (such as physical tasks, focusing, or interacting with others) in light of your medical condition.

If you are not working full-time or at all, you must provide comprehensive medical documentation to prove your disability:

• Doctor’s Notes: A letter from your treating physician explaining your condition and how it limits your ability to work can be very helpful.
• Medical Records: Submit all relevant medical records, including test results, treatments, hospitalizations, and therapy notes.
• Function Report: A detailed report that outlines how your condition affects your ability to function on a daily basis is essential. This includes your ability to carry out everyday tasks like cleaning, cooking, or interacting with others.

How to Apply for SSDI if You’re Not Working Full-Time

If you believe you are eligible for SSDI and are not working full-time, the application process remains the same. Here’s how to apply:

• Apply Online: The easiest way to apply is through the SSA’s online portal at www.ssa.gov.
• In-Person: If you prefer, you can apply at your local SSA office in person. Use the SSA Office Locator to find the nearest office.
• Phone Application: You can also apply by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.

Be sure to have the following documents on hand when applying:

• Your Social Security number
• Medical records showing the extent of your disability
• Work history or financial information (if applying for SSI)

What to Do If Your SSDI Application Is Denied

It’s common for initial SSDI applications to be denied, even if you meet the qualifications. If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. The appeals process includes several stages:

• Request for Reconsideration: If your application is denied, you can request a reconsideration, where the SSA will review your case again.
• Hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): If your reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing where an ALJ will review your case in person and make a final decision.
• Appeals Council: If the ALJ denies your claim, you can appeal the decision to the SSA’s Appeals Council.