What is SSDI and How Does It Apply to Part-Time Workers?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program designed to provide benefits to individuals who are unable to work due to a qualifying disability. The key requirement for SSDI is that you have worked and paid into the Social Security system for a sufficient number of years, earning work credits.

Part-time workers can qualify for SSDI, but it’s not just about how many hours you’ve worked. SSDI eligibility depends on:

• Work Credits: You need a minimum number of work credits, which are earned through paid employment. For most people, this means working full-time for a certain number of years. However, part-time workers can still accumulate work credits as long as their income meets the Social Security requirements for earning a credit.
• Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA): Even if you work part-time, if you earn above the Social Security SGA threshold, you may not be eligible for SSDI. In 2025, the SGA limit for non-blind individuals is $1,470 per month. If you earn more than this, you may be considered able to work and therefore ineligible for disability benefits, regardless of whether you work part-time or full-time.

What is SSI and How Does It Apply to Part-Time Workers?

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based program designed to assist low-income individuals, regardless of their work history. Unlike SSDI, SSI does not require a certain number of work credits. Eligibility for SSI is based primarily on income and resources, rather than the amount of work you’ve done.

Part-time workers can qualify for SSI as long as they meet the financial need requirements. This includes having limited income and assets, and your monthly earnings from part-time work cannot exceed the SSI income limit, which changes yearly. In 2025, the income limit for an individual applying for SSI is $914 per month.

Can Part-Time Workers Qualify for Disability Benefits?

Yes, part-time workers can qualify for disability benefits, but there are important conditions to consider:

• For SSDI: Part-time workers can qualify for SSDI if they have accumulated enough work credits over the years and are unable to earn more than the SGA limit. Part-time work that brings in less than the SGA threshold will not disqualify you for SSDI benefits. However, you must meet the SSA’s disability criteria.
• For SSI: Part-time workers can qualify for SSI if they meet the financial need requirements. The amount of income you earn from part-time work will be assessed to determine if you qualify for SSI benefits. If your monthly earnings are too high, you may not qualify for SSI.

What Are the Key Factors in Part-Time Workers’ Disability Claims?

Here are the key factors that will affect whether part-time workers can qualify for disability benefits:

• Work Credits for SSDI: Part-time workers can still earn the necessary work credits as long as their income meets the Social Security requirements for earning a credit. It’s important to check how many work credits you’ve earned.
• Income Limits for SSI: For SSI eligibility, your total income—including earnings from part-time work—must fall below the income limit set by the SSA. If you are earning more than the threshold, you may not qualify.
• Disability Severity: Whether you are applying for SSDI or SSI, you must prove that your disability prevents you from working and earning at a substantial level. Part-time work may still be allowed, as long as your disability restricts your ability to perform full-time work.