What is SSDI?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that provides monthly benefits to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability. To qualify for SSDI, you must meet certain work history requirements, specifically earning enough work credits by working and paying taxes into the Social Security system.

If you are self-employed, you still have the opportunity to qualify for SSDI, as long as you have been paying self-employment taxes (also called FICA or SECA taxes). Your eligibility for SSDI depends on your work history, including how much you’ve contributed through taxes.

Eligibility for SSDI if You Are Self-Employed

To qualify for SSDI, whether you are self-employed or traditionally employed, you must meet the following criteria:

• Work History: You must have earned enough work credits to be eligible for SSDI. The number of credits needed depends on your age when you became disabled. Generally, you can earn up to 4 credits per year based on your income. For example, to qualify for SSDI, most people need 20 credits earned over the last 10 years before they became disabled. If you're younger, you may need fewer credits.
• Self-Employment and FICA Contributions: As a self-employed individual, you are responsible for paying self-employment taxes on your earnings. These taxes contribute to your work credits for SSDI eligibility. When you file your taxes using Schedule C or Schedule SE, the amount you pay in self-employment taxes is used to determine whether you have sufficient credits to qualify for SSDI.
• Disability: You must demonstrate that your disability prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA). The SSA defines SGA as earning more than a specific monthly income threshold. In 2025, the SGA threshold is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals. If you are earning more than this amount, even if you are self-employed, the SSA may determine that you are not eligible for SSDI.
• Duration of Disability: Your disability must prevent you from working for at least 12 months or be expected to result in death.

Steps to Apply for SSDI if You Are Self-Employed

Here’s how you can apply for SSDI if you are self-employed:

• Ensure You Meet Work Credit Requirements: First, check if you have earned enough work credits through your self-employment income. You can do this by reviewing your Social Security Statement. You can access your statement online at www.ssa.gov by creating an account. This statement will show your earnings history and whether you have enough work credits to qualify for SSDI.
• Prepare Your Tax Records: As a self-employed individual, your tax records play a crucial role in proving your eligibility for SSDI. The SSA will use your tax returns, particularly Schedule C and Schedule SE, to verify your income and self-employment tax contributions. Make sure your tax records are up-to-date and accurately reflect your income and taxes paid.
• Gather Medical Documentation: The most important part of your application is proving that your disability prevents you from working. You will need to provide detailed medical records, including:
• Doctor’s reports: Descriptions of your condition, how it limits your ability to work, and any treatments or therapies you’ve undergone.
• Hospital records: If you’ve been hospitalized for your condition, include these records.
• Laboratory and imaging results: Any relevant test results that show the severity of your condition.
• Doctor’s opinion: A statement from your treating physician detailing the limitations of your condition and how it impacts your ability to work.
• Complete the Application: You can apply for SSDI online through the Social Security Administration website at www.ssa.gov. Alternatively, you can apply by calling 1-800-772-1213 or visiting your local Social Security office.
• During the application process, be honest and detailed about your self-employment situation, including your earnings, the nature of your business, and how your disability impacts your ability to perform daily tasks and work-related duties.
• The SSA will review your self-employment income and ensure that it aligns with the eligibility criteria for SSDI.
• Submit Required Documents: Be sure to submit all requested documentation, including medical evidence and tax records. Missing information or incomplete documentation can delay the review process or result in a denial of your claim.

What Happens After You Apply?

After you submit your application, the SSA will review your case to determine whether you meet the qualifications for SSDI. The review process typically involves:

• Initial Review: The SSA will evaluate your work history, medical evidence, and self-employment tax contributions. This process can take about 3 to 5 months.
• Reconsideration: If your application is denied, you can request reconsideration, which means the SSA will review your claim again. This can take another 3 to 4 months.
• Hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge. The hearing is your opportunity to present your case in person. The wait for a hearing can take up to 12 to 18 months, depending on the backlog in your area.
• Appeals Process: If your hearing is unsuccessful, you can appeal the decision to the Appeals Council and, if necessary, to federal court.