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How do you qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance?

On Behalf of | Oct 13, 2022 | Qualifying for disability benefits |

Social Security Disability Insurance is meant to provide for people who have been hard workers and suddenly become unable to work. It’s administered by the Social Security Administration using funds deposited through taxes paid by employees and employers in this country. 

While it might seem like you should be able to get this easily if you’ve worked enough, that’s not at all the case. Getting approved for SSDI is a lengthy process that can become stressful. Before you embark on the process, you should ensure you qualify for benefits. 

What’s required to qualify for SSDI?

When you work or are self-employed, you earn work credits. You can earn up to four per year. The exact amount of wages you must earn per credit varies per year. In 2022, you get one credit when you earn $1,510 in income. You need a total of 40 credits to qualify for SSDI, but that might be lower for some workers. Of those 40 credits, at least 20 must have been earned within the past decade of your becoming disabled. 

Additionally, you must be unable to earn an income because you have a qualifying medical condition. The condition you have must be expected to result in your death or will last for at least a year. 

If you’re disabled and unable to work, you should get your SSDI application submitted as quickly as possible. Ensure you have everything documented correctly so your case can move through the approval process as quickly as possible. Many SSDI cases are denied during the initial process, so be sure you have someone on your side who can assist you through the appeal process.