If you are currently in a situation where your medical condition or disability has made you incapable of working, you may be able to seek financial help from the government through Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
However, before you begin your application, you must first gain insight into how this program works and if your circumstances meet with its strict eligibility criteria.
How can I qualify for SSDI?
To apply for SSDI benefits, you must have either a disability that is expected to last for at least a year, or a medical condition that is expected to result in death. You also need to earn a certain amount of “employment credits” or Social Security tax contributions from your work history.
The amount of work credits you need will depend on your age (from when your disability began). For example, if you are under the age of 24, you will only need six work credits to apply for SSDI.
Lastly, you must be a low-income adult who cannot work or perform a substantial gainful activity (SGA). For the year 2025, the program’s administration had an SGA earning limit of $1,620 per month for non-blind people and $2,700 per month for blind people.
How and when do I apply for SSDI?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) recommends submitting SSDI applications over the phone, online or in person as soon as the applicants develop or discover their disability. All applicants have the right to legal representation.
What information should I include in my application?
Aside from your SSDI application, you will also need to complete other forms. For SSA-3368, you need to provide information about your condition and how it affects your ability to work. For SSA-827, you need to grant your hospitals and healthcare providers permission to send the SSA with information about your disability or medical condition.
Ask for help if you need it
Applying for disability benefits can feel overwhelming when you are also unemployed and struggling with your medical condition. If you need assistance at any point of the process, don’t forget that your family, friends and disability advocates can become your helping hand at reach.
