Step 1: Determine If You’re Eligible for SSDI

To qualify for SSDI, you must meet specific eligibility criteria set by the Social Security Administration (SSA). These criteria primarily involve your work history and whether you have a disability that prevents you from working.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Work Credits: SSDI is for individuals who have worked and paid into the Social Security system. To qualify, you must have earned enough work credits by working and paying Social Security taxes. Generally, you need 40 credits, with 20 of those credits earned in the last 10 years. Younger workers may require fewer credits.
• Disability: Your disability must be severe enough to prevent you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA), and it must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. You must provide medical evidence to support your claim.
• Social Security’s Definition of Disability: The SSA defines disability as the inability to engage in any substantial work due to a medical condition that significantly limits your ability to perform basic work activities.

Step 2: Gather the Necessary Documentation

Before you apply, it’s important to gather all the necessary documentation to support your application. This will help speed up the process and improve your chances of approval.

Required Documents:

• Medical Records: You’ll need up-to-date documentation from your doctor, including diagnosis, treatment plans, test results, and any other medical information that proves your condition prevents you from working.
• Personal Information: Have your Social Security number, birth certificate, marriage records (if applicable), and other personal information ready.
• Work History: Include a list of your past jobs, employers, dates of employment, and a description of your duties. The SSA will use this to determine if your disability prevents you from doing past work.
• Proof of Income: If applicable, provide any pay stubs or tax returns that may help the SSA understand your income history.

Step 3: Apply for SSDI

There are several ways to apply for SSDI:

• Online Application: The fastest way to apply is through the SSA’s online portal at www.ssa.gov. This option is available for most applicants, and it’s a convenient way to get started from the comfort of your home.
• Phone Application: You can also apply by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. A representative will assist you with completing your application over the phone.
• In Person: If you prefer, you can visit your local Social Security office in person to apply. You can find your nearest office using the SSA’s office locator tool.

Application Tips:

• Be Thorough: Make sure to answer every question thoroughly and accurately. Any missing or incorrect information could delay your application.
• Be Honest: It’s important to be completely truthful about your medical history, work history, and financial situation.
• Provide All Necessary Documentation: Missing documents can result in delays or even denial of your claim.

Step 4: Understand the SSDI Evaluation Process

Once you’ve submitted your application, the SSA will evaluate it based on a five-step process:

• Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA): If you are working and earning above a certain threshold (about $1,470 per month in 2025), the SSA may determine that you are not eligible for SSDI.
• Severe Impairment: Your medical condition must be severe enough to significantly limit your ability to perform basic work tasks.
• Meet a Listed Impairment: The SSA has a list of impairments (known as the Listing of Impairments). If your condition is listed, you may automatically qualify. If your condition is not listed, the SSA will assess whether it is as severe as a listed condition.
• Past Work: The SSA will review whether you can still do the work you did before your disability. If not, they will move to the next step.
• Other Work: If you can’t perform your past job, the SSA will determine whether you can do any other kind of work based on your skills, education, and age.

Step 5: Wait for the Decision

After submitting your application, it may take several months for the SSA to make a decision. The review process can take anywhere from 3 to 6 months, or even longer if there is a backlog of cases.

If the SSA requires more information, they may contact you or your medical providers for additional documentation. You can track the progress of your application by creating an SSA online account.

Step 6: What to Do If Your SSDI Application Is Denied

Unfortunately, many initial SSDI applications are denied. If your application is denied, you still have options:

• Request Reconsideration: This is the first step in the appeal process. You can request that your case be reviewed again by the SSA.
• Request a Hearing: If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is an opportunity to present your case in person.
• Appeal to the Appeals Council: If the ALJ denies your claim, you can appeal to the Appeals Council.