Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that pays monthly benefits to people who can no longer work due to a qualifying disability. Unlike SSI, SSDI is not based on how much money you have — it is based on how long and how recently you worked and paid Social Security taxes.
The Two Eligibility Tests
SSA uses two separate work-credit tests before reviewing your medical condition.
- Recent Work Test — You must have worked recently enough before becoming disabled. For most people under 31, this means working at least half the time since age 21. For people 31 and older, the requirement is generally 5 years of work in the 10 years before your disability began.
- Duration of Work Test — You must have worked long enough overall. The number of credits required increases with age, from 6 credits for workers under 24 up to 40 credits for workers 62 and older.
What Counts as a Work Credit?
In 2024, you earn one work credit for every $1,730 in covered earnings, up to a maximum of four credits per year. Credits do not expire — they accumulate over your lifetime. However, the recent work test means older credits may not count toward current eligibility.
Medical Eligibility Is Separate
Passing the work tests only means SSA will review your medical condition. You still must show that your impairment prevents you from doing any substantial gainful activity (SGA) and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. SSA uses a five-step evaluation process to make this determination.
What to Do Next
If you are unsure whether you meet the work credit requirements, you can check your Social Security Statement at ssa.gov/myaccount. If you do not qualify for SSDI, you may still qualify for SSI, which has no work history requirement.