What is SSDI?
SSDI is a program that helps people who have a disability that prevents them from working. It’s a financial benefit that people who have worked for a certain number of years can get if they can no longer work due to their condition. It’s important to note that SSDI isn’t for everyone, and if you have never worked, you might need to apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) instead.How Many Years of Work Do You Need for SSDI?
The number of years you need to have worked to qualify for SSDI depends on your age when you become disabled. Here’s a general guide:- Before age 28: 1.5 years of work
- Age 30: 2 years
- Age 34: 3 years
- Age 38: 4 years
- Age 42: 5 years
- Age 44: 5.5 years
- Age 46: 6 years
- Age 48: 6.5 years
- Age 50: 7 years
- Age 52: 7.5 years
- Age 54: 8 years
- Age 56: 8.5 years
- Age 58: 9 years
- Age 60: 9.5 years
SSDI vs. Social Security Retirement Benefits
While SSDI helps those who are unable to work due to a disability, Social Security retirement benefits are available to people once they reach the age of 62 or older. If you want to start receiving retirement benefits at 62, you must have worked for at least 40 years (or 10 years). For SSDI, you need fewer years of work, depending on your age when you become disabled. For example, if you’re 60, you only need 9.5 years of work to qualify for SSDI.How to Check If You’re Eligible for SSDI or Retirement Benefits
You can check your eligibility for SSDI or Social Security retirement benefits by looking at your annual Social Security statement. This will show you how much you’ve earned, the number of work credits you have, and when you can expect to start receiving payments, either for disability or retirement. SSDI can be an important financial lifeline if you’re unable to work due to a disability. Knowing how many years of work you need, and how SSDI differs from Social Security retirement benefits, can help you understand whether you qualify. Be sure to check your Social Security statement regularly and contact the SSA for any questions about your eligibility.1. How much can I get from SSDI?
The amount you can receive from SSDI depends on your work history. It can range up to $3,822 a month, or about $1,539.
2. What’s the difference between SSDI and SSI?
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes, while SSI is for those who haven’t worked but need financial assistance.
3. How do I know if I qualify for SSDI?
You need to have worked a certain number of years, depending on your age. Social Security will check your work history to see if you qualify.
4. Can I apply for SSDI if I haven’t worked a lot?
If you haven’t worked enough, you may not qualify for SSDI, but you might be eligible for SSI, depending on your situation.
5. How can I check my work credits for SSDI?
You can check your work credits through your annual Social Security statement. It will show how many credits you have earned.
