When you have a health condition that prevents you from working, you may qualify for Social Security disability benefits. The Social Security Administration operates two disability benefits programs – Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Understanding the requirements for Social Security disability benefits can help you determine which programs you may qualify for.
Basic Eligibility Requirements
A person who applies for Social Security disability benefits must demonstrate they have a qualifying “disability.” The Social Security Administration defines a qualifying disability as a severe medical condition expected to last at least one year or result in death that prevents an individual from engaging in “substantial gainful activity.” Substantial gainful activity refers to performing work that earns a minimum amount of monthly income – as of 2025, $1,620 for a non-blind individual or $2,700 for a blind individual.
After demonstrating a qualifying disability, applicants must show that they meet the other eligibility criteria for SSDI or SSI.
SSDI Work Credit Requirements
SSDI provides disability benefits for working individuals who become disabled. A person can qualify for SSDI by meeting the work history requirements. The Social Security Administration tracks work history through work credits. A person gains a work credit by earning a certain amount of income subject to Social Security taxes, up to a maximum of four credits per year. The SSA requires a certain number of total credits and a certain number of recent credits to qualify for SSDI. The number of credits a person needs will depend on their age at the onset of their disability.
SSI Income/Asset Limits
SSI provides disability benefits to low-income individuals who develop disabling medical conditions. A person can qualify for SSI if they earn no income or less than the federal benefit rate, which changes annually in response to inflation. An applicant’s countable income will also affect their SSI benefit payment; the Social Security Administration usually subtracts a person’s countable monthly income from the federal benefit rate to calculate their SSI benefit payment.
Furthermore, a person must own assets with a total value of less than $2,000 for individuals or $3,000 for married couples; however, the Social Security Administration excludes assets such as an applicant’s primary residence, one personal vehicle, and certain household goods.
Medical Evidence
Finally, applying for Social Security disability benefits will require you to present robust medical evidence to establish a qualifying disability. Medical evidence can include your health records, test results, radiology scans, and doctor’s notes. The medical evidence will help prove the existence of a disabling condition and allow the Social Security Administration to evaluate whether you can perform past work you’ve done in your career or other jobs that exist in substantial numbers in the national economy.
Contact a Social Security Disability Attorney Today
After becoming disabled from working, you may have a claim for Social Security benefits. An experienced attorney can help you determine whether you may qualify for the Social Security Administration’s disability benefit programs. Contact Wambach Disability Law today for a free, no-obligation consultation with our Indiana legal team to discuss your options.