If a long-term physical or mental condition limits your ability to work, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) outlines specific eligibility criteria, and understanding these requirements can help you submit a complete and well-supported application.
How your job history plays a role
SSD eligibility depends partly on your work history and Social Security contributions. The SSA uses work credits to measure this, which you earn through income from employment or self-employment. Typically, 40 work credits are required, with 20 earned in the 10 years before your disability began. However, younger applicants may qualify with fewer credits, depending on their age at the onset of the condition.
What your medical condition needs to prove
Your condition must meet the SSA’s definition of a disability. This means it must severely limit your ability to perform basic work tasks and be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. The SSA provides a Listing of Impairments that identifies qualifying conditions. If your diagnosis isn’t listed, you can still be eligible if medical evidence shows your condition is equally limiting.
Can you do any other kind of job?
If you can’t return to your previous job, the SSA evaluates whether you can adapt to different work. This includes an assessment of your residual functional capacity, along with your age, education level, and prior work experience. If the evidence suggests that transitioning to another occupation would be difficult, you may still qualify.
Why this information matters
Understanding SSA guidelines helps you prepare a more accurate application. Knowing how to document your work history and provide strong medical evidence can improve your chances of approval for SSD benefits.
