09/25/2026
🚨 DON’T HAVE ENOUGH WORK CREDITS FOR SSDI?
One of the most common questions we hear is:
“What if I’m disabled but I haven’t worked long enough to qualify for SSDI?”
SSDI is based on your work history and the Social Security taxes you have paid through covered employment or self-employment.
To qualify for SSDI, you generally must have worked long enough and recently enough under Social Security’s rules.
🔹 The number of credits you need depends on your age when your disability begins.
🔹 Younger workers may qualify with fewer work credits.
🔹 For someone whose disability begins at age 31 or older, the general rule is 20 work credits in the 10 years before becoming disabled, along with other insured-status requirements.
🔹 In 2026, you earn one Social Security work credit for every $1,890 in covered earnings, and you can earn a maximum of four credits per year.
But here’s something important:
Not having enough work credits for SSDI does not necessarily mean you have no potential disability benefit available.
Depending on your financial circumstances and other eligibility requirements, you may qualify for SSI, which does not require the same work-credit history as SSDI.
📌 Your work history can determine whether you qualify for SSDI — and your age can affect how many credits you need.