Unable to Work Because of a Health Condition?

SSDI stands for Social Security Disability Insurance. It is a federal program that may pay monthly benefits to people who worked and paid Social Security taxes but can no longer work because of a qualifying disability. It is administered by the Social Security Administration.

Generally, people who have a medical condition that seriously limits their ability to work, whose condition has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death, and who have enough work history under Social Security. Requirements vary by individual circumstances, and the Social Security Administration decides each claim.

It depends on your age. A commonly cited guideline is having worked roughly 5 of the last 10 years, but younger workers generally need less, and the exact requirement is based on work credits earned over time. If you are not sure, that is normal, and it is one of the things worth talking through.

A denial does not automatically end the process. Many claims are denied initially, and there is an appeals process with multiple stages. There are deadlines involved, so it generally helps to look at your options as soon as you can. Whether an appeal is worth pursuing depends on the reason for the denial and your specific circumstances.

Social Security generally looks for a condition that has lasted, or is expected to last, at least 12 months, or that is expected to result in death. Short-term injuries and temporary illnesses generally are not covered by SSDI.

Yes. Mental health conditions can be considered, including depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and others. As with physical conditions, what matters is how the condition affects your ability to work and what medical documentation supports it.

Possibly, but it depends on how much you earn. Social Security looks at whether your work counts as substantial gainful activity, which is based on a monthly earnings amount that changes from year to year. Working above that amount generally makes it harder to qualify. Working a small amount does not automatically disqualify you.

No. SSDI is based on your work history and the Social Security taxes you paid. SSI, or Supplemental Security Income, is based on financial need and does not require a work history. Some people qualify for one, and some qualify for both. They are separate programs with different rules.

Your information is reviewed based on what you told us. If your situation looks like a fit, you may be contacted at the phone number you provided and may be connected with an independent disability advocate, representative, or attorney who can explain possible next steps. Submitting this form is not an application for benefits.

No. Only the Social Security Administration decides who qualifies for Social Security Disability benefits. PickMyDisability is not a government agency, a law firm, or a disability advocacy organization. We connect people with independent providers who may be able to help.