Social Security Disability Insurance

Understanding SSDI Benefits

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal insurance program that provides financial assistance to individuals who can no longer work due to a qualifying disability. If you've worked and paid Social Security taxes, you may be eligible for these crucial benefits.

SSDI provides monthly payments to help cover living expenses when a disability prevents you from maintaining employment. Unlike SSI, SSDI eligibility is based on your work history and the Social Security taxes you've paid over the years.

Basic Eligibility Requirements

• You must have a medical condition that meets Social Security's definition of disability
• Your condition must prevent you from doing work that you did before
• Your condition must prevent you from adjusting to other work
• Your disability must last or be expected to last at least one year, or result in death
• You must have worked long enough and recently enough under Social Security

The exact work credits you need depends on your age when your disability begins. Generally, you need 40 credits, 20 of which were earned in the last 10 years ending with the year your disability begins.

Common Qualifying Conditions

• Musculoskeletal problems (back injuries, arthritis)
• Cardiovascular conditions (heart disease, heart failure)
• Mental health disorders (depression, anxiety, PTSD)
• Neurological disorders (epilepsy, Parkinson's, MS)
• Respiratory illnesses (COPD, asthma, lung disease)
• Cancer and other serious illnesses
• Immune system disorders
• And many other qualifying conditions

The Social Security Administration maintains a detailed list of qualifying conditions. Even if your condition isn't listed, you may still qualify if it prevents you from working.