The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program, administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA), provides financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a severe medical condition or social security disability. However, the eligibility criteria for SSDI are complex and require applicants to meet certain conditions before they can qualify. Understanding what constitutes disability under the SSA’s guidelines is essential for anyone considering applying for benefits.
What is SSDI?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program designed to provide benefits to individuals who have worked in the past and paid Social Security taxes, but are now unable to work due to a medical condition that is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. SSDI benefits are typically paid to disabled workers, their spouses, and dependent children.
Unlike Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which provides benefits based on financial need, SSDI is a program that is contingent on your work history and contributions to Social Security.
Eligibility Criteria for SSDI
To qualify for SSDI benefits, you must meet several criteria:
1. Work History and Social Security Contributions
SSDI is a work-based program. You must have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a sufficient number of years. Typically, you must have worked for at least 5 out of the last 10 years before becoming disabled. The number of work credits needed depends on your age at the time of disability. Younger individuals may require fewer credits than older workers.
The SSA calculates work credits based on your earnings. For instance, you can earn up to four work credits per year, and in 2025, you need to earn $1,470 in a quarter to receive one credit. Accumulating 40 credits is generally required, with at least 20 of those credits earned in the last 10 years before the disability occurred. However, exceptions exist for individuals who are younger than 31, where fewer credits are required.
2. Medical Condition Expected to Last for At Least 12 Months or Result in Death
One of the core elements of SSDI eligibility is that you must have a medical condition that is expected to last for a minimum of 12 months or is expected to result in death. Short-term disabilities, such as a broken bone or a temporary illness, do not qualify for disability benefits.
The SSA maintains a list of medical conditions, referred to as the “Blue Book,” which includes conditions that typically meet the SSA’s definition of disability. However, not all conditions are listed in the Blue Book, and many individuals with unlisted conditions can still qualify for SSDI if they meet other requirements.
3. Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) Requirement
To be eligible for SSDI benefits, you must be unable to engage in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA), which refers to work that earns above a specific income threshold. In 2025, the SSA defines SGA as earning more than $1,470 per month (this amount is higher for blind individuals, at $2,460 per month).
If you are working and earning above the SGA limit, you will not qualify for SSDI, even if you are living with a disability. The SSA wants to ensure that individuals who receive SSDI are truly unable to maintain substantial employment due to their medical condition.
4. Severity of the Condition and Impact on Work
Simply having a medical condition is not enough to qualify for SSDI. The SSA requires that the condition significantly limits your ability to work and perform essential job tasks. This includes not only the physical limitations caused by the condition but also the cognitive and emotional impact.
To demonstrate the severity of your condition, you must provide medical evidence, such as doctor’s reports, test results, and other relevant documentation that outlines how the condition limits your ability to work. The SSA will evaluate your ability to perform your past work and whether you can adjust to other types of work, given your limitations.
The SSA’s Blue Book: Medical Listings for Disability
The SSA maintains a comprehensive list of impairments that qualify for SSDI benefits, known as the Blue Book. This guide includes a wide range of medical conditions, including:
- Cardiovascular disorders
- Respiratory illnesses
- Mental health conditions (depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc.)
- Musculoskeletal disorders (arthritis, back problems, etc.)
- Neurological disorders (stroke, epilepsy, etc.)
If your condition is listed in the Blue Book, you may qualify for SSDI benefits if you meet the medical and work criteria. However, even if your condition is not listed, you may still qualify for benefits by demonstrating that the severity of your condition prevents you from working.
Conclusion
Qualifying for SSDI benefits requires meeting specific criteria established by the Social Security Administration. Understanding these eligibility requirements—such as your work history, medical condition, and the inability to perform substantial gainful activity—will help you better prepare for the application process. If you are unsure about your eligibility or need assistance, consider seeking guidance from a disability attorney or advocate to ensure your case is presented effectively.
