Non-Medical Requirements for SSDI

Work Credits

To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes. The SSA measures this through work credits, which are based on your earnings and work history.

• Most people need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years.
• Younger workers may qualify with fewer credits depending on their age.

Recent Work

It’s not enough to have work credits—you must have worked recently. If too much time has passed since you last worked and paid into the system, you may no longer be eligible.

Age and Disability Onset

You must have become disabled before reaching full retirement age, and your disability must have started while you still had insured status (enough valid work credits).

Non-Medical Requirements for SSI

Income Limits

SSI is a needs-based program, so your total income (earned and unearned) must fall below certain limits set by the SSA. This includes:

• Wages
• Social Security benefits
• Pensions
• Support from family or friends

Asset Limits

The SSA also limits your resources (such as savings, property, and vehicles) to:

• $2,000 for individuals
• $3,000 for couples

Some resources, like your home and one car, may not count against you.

Citizenship or Legal Residency

You must be a U.S. citizen or fall under certain categories of qualified non-citizens (like lawful permanent residents) to be eligible for SSI.

Shared Non-Medical Requirements for SSDI and SSI

Not Engaged in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)

If you’re working and earning more than the SSA’s monthly limit (e.g., $1,550/month in 2025 for non-blind individuals), you may be considered able to work and not disabled.

Filing the Application Correctly

Incomplete or inaccurate applications can result in delays or outright denials, even if you meet all eligibility requirements. It’s critical to:

• Answer all questions truthfully
• Submit all required documentation
• Respond quickly to SSA requests

Not Currently Incarcerated

You generally can’t receive SSDI or SSI while in prison or jail. Benefits may be suspended during incarceration and reinstated after release.

Why Non-Medical Factors Matter

Many disability applications are denied without ever reaching the medical review stage simply because the applicant doesn’t meet the basic non-medical qualifications. That’s why it’s so important to understand and meet these requirements before applying.