If you work for yourself in Los Angeles, you might wonder if you can get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Whether you run a food truck, design websites or drive for rideshare apps, you have options. Self-employed workers can get SSDI, but you must follow specific steps and keep good records.
What counts as self-employment for SSDI?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) says you’re self-employed when you run your own business or work independently. This includes:
- Freelance work
- Small business ownership
- Independent contracting
- Home-based businesses
- Gig economy jobs
These types of work count toward SSDI if you report your income and pay Social Security taxes.
How to qualify when you’re self-employed
You’ll need to meet two main requirements to get SSDI:
- Work credits: You earn credits based on your income. In 2023, you get one credit for every $1,640 you earn, up to four credits yearly. Most people need 40 credits total, with 20 from the last 10 years.
- Proof of income: You must show your earnings through:
-
- Tax returns
- Business records
- 1099 forms
- Bank statements
The SSA will also check three key areas:
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- Your income level
- How your work compares to others
- The value of your work efforts
Getting SSDI while self-employed takes extra planning and paperwork. Many self-employed workers find the process tricky to handle alone. A Los Angeles SSDI lawyer who knows self-employment rules can help you develop a strong application and boost your chances of approval. They’ll ensure you have the proper documents and meet all the SSA’s requirements.
