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Injuries or illness can strike at any age, but if you've worked for years, you may expect the government to help you. That's where Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) comes in.
You'll want to find out if you qualify for SSDI and what goes into the application process before you retire, and any health issues arise.
Here's what you need to know to be approved for Social Security Disability benefits.
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What is SSDI?
SSDI, often referred to as just "disability," is a type of payment made to qualified individuals by the Social Security Administration (SSA). This monthly payment can help provide for many of the needs of qualified individuals.
Since this type of financial aid is only available to those who have a disability that limits or even eliminates their ability to work, it's critical to understand if you meet the SSA's definition of disabled.
You can't work at all
You may qualify for SSDI if you can't work. Under the SSA guidelines, this means you have some condition that limits you from earning enough money above "substantial gainful activity."
This figure differs from year to year. In 2025, if you can't earn more than $1,620 per month, you may qualify for SSDI. And in 2026 that amount goes slightly up to $1,690.
You're legally blind
For those who are legally blind, as determined by an optometrist, you may also qualify for SSDI without any other medical limitations.
If you are blind and cannot earn more than $2,700 per month in 2025, and $2,830 in 2026, which is the threshold for substantial gainful activity for a blind person, then you may qualify.
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You can support your disability claim
Here's the key to being eligible: You have to be able to prove it, and the SSA requires that proof include extensive medical documentation showing your disability and the degree to which it prevents you from earning an income.
To determine if you meet these requirements, you'll need to look at the SSA's Listing of Impairments for adults. You may qualify if you have medical documentation of one of these conditions and can show licensed medical doctor records.
You've worked enough years
You have to have enough work history to qualify. This means you've worked for at least five of the last 10 years. If you're under 24, you may be eligible if you've worked for a shorter period.
This is defined as the number of work credits you have. To qualify for SSDI, you must have at least 40 work credits, and 10 must be within the last decade.
You paid into Social Security during your work history
If you worked but didn't pay into the Social Security system, you may not qualify for SSDI. Most people pay into SSA with every paycheck they earn, much like paying federal or state taxes.
If you worked an under-the-table job or your employer didn't report your earnings to SSA, you may have difficulty proving you meet the work eligibility requirements.
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You're not going to get better
SSDI is only provided on a long-term basis. If you're unable to work during a period of illness, you can't apply for SSDI. Instead, if you can't work and the condition is expected to last for a year or longer or result in your death, you may qualify.
Your condition is severe
SSDI is meant for those with serious conditions that make it impossible for a person to work. SSA defines severe as conditions where you can't do activities necessary for work, such as walking, sitting, standing for long periods, or lifting. You may also qualify if you can't remember things due to a mental defect.
You meet the compassionate allowance requirements
There's typically a waiting period to determine if your condition will improve. However, if you meet any of the SSA's compassionate allowances, you can apply for and get SSDI immediately.
Compassionate allowances are for those who have particular conditions like pancreatic cancer, Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS), or acute leukemia.
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You can't do other types of work
Disability often focuses on a person's ability to do the job they've been doing in the past. However, if you can't do any work due to your medical condition, that could indicate you're eligible.
If you have transferable skills that could be used in another industry that would be possible to manage your medical impairment, you may not qualify for SSDI.
You see a specialist routinely
If you are unsure if you meet the requirements for obtaining SSDI, consider the type of doctors you visit.
If you see a specialist consistently, such as for multiple sclerosis, heart disease, Parkinson's disease, or Huntington's disease, you likely qualify for SSDI if your condition is debilitating.
Bottom line
If you meet these criteria, applying for SSDI is straightforward. You can start the process online or visit your local SSA office.
Even if you don't qualify, the SSA can help you explore other programs, such as Supplemental Security Income, to help you have a stress free retirement.
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