You Must Have a Qualifying Disability

To receive SSDI benefits, you must have a medically determinable condition that:

• Has lasted, or is expected to last, at least 12 months
• Or is expected to result in death
• Prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA)

The SSA maintains a Listing of Impairments, which includes conditions that may automatically qualify if specific criteria are met. However, even if your condition isn’t listed, you may still qualify if it severely limits your ability to work.

You Must Meet Work Credit Requirements

SSDI is based on your work history. You earn “work credits” through paying Social Security taxes on your income.

• Most people need 40 work credits, 20 of which must be earned in the last 10 years
• Younger individuals may qualify with fewer credits, depending on age

Each year, you can earn up to 4 credits, and in 2025, one credit equals $1,730 in earnings.

Your Income Must Be Below the SGA Threshold

If you are still working, your monthly earnings must fall below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit:

• In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,550/month for non-blind individuals and $2,590/month for blind individuals

If your income exceeds these limits, the SSA may determine that you are not disabled—even if you have a qualifying condition.

You Must Provide Extensive Medical Documentation

Your application must include detailed medical records, such as:

• Diagnoses, test results, and treatment plans
• Doctor’s notes explaining your functional limitations
• Records from hospitals, clinics, and specialists

Strong documentation is essential to demonstrate that your condition prevents you from working.

You Must Be Unable to Perform Any Substantial Work

The SSA will evaluate whether:

• You can perform any of your past work
• You can adjust to other types of work based on your education, age, and skills

If the SSA finds that you can adjust to another job, your claim may be denied—even if you can’t return to your previous work.