Guide to Social Security Disability Benefits

When health issues prevent you from working, especially before retirement age, it can have significant physical, emotional, and financial impacts. The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program offers support for qualified individuals. To qualify, applicants must meet specific criteria related to work history and medical condition.

Work Requirements for Eligibility

The number of work credits needed varies by age at disability onset. For instance, a 50-year-old applicant generally needs at least 28 credits, which typically means having worked for seven years, with five of those years within the last decade, to be eligible for benefits.

Medical Qualification Standards

The applicant's medical condition must satisfy SSA’s disability standards. Benefits are limited to those with long-term, severe, and total disabilities.

• Long-term disability: The condition must persist or be expected to last at least a year.
• Severe disability: The impairment significantly hampers basic work activities.
• Total disability: According to SSA, this means the individual cannot perform substantial gainful activity (SGA) for at least a year.

If a person is employed and earning above SSA’s SGA limit, they typically do not qualify for SSDI, as they are considered capable of work.

Post-Approval Benefits Process

Upon approval, benefits are usually paid after a five-month waiting period. Benefits consist of backpay, followed by ongoing monthly payments. Income above certain thresholds may make the recipient liable for taxes. Family members can sometimes receive partial benefits. Benefits continue as long as the medical condition prevents work. The SSA conducts periodic reviews (every 1-3 years) to assess ongoing eligibility.

In Case of Denial

If the claim is denied, applicants can appeal within 60 days of receiving the decision. Appeals differ depending on whether the denial was medical or non-medical in nature.

• Reconsideration: A different examiner reviews the case.
• Hearing: If denied again, a hearing is held before an administrative law judge.

Note: Our blog provides diverse, practical information based on research and data. However, articles should not be considered conclusive. We are not responsible for inaccuracies or variations across sources. Additionally, some benefits or schemes may not be covered here but could be more advantageous.