When most people think about qualifying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), they immediately focus on the medical side of things. This usually includes evidence like doctors’ notes, test results, and documented limitations.
However, even if you have a serious medical condition, you must also meet non-medical requirements for SSDI before the Social Security Administration (SSA) will approve your claim. These financial, legal, and work-related criteria can determine whether or not you receive Social Security Disability benefits.
At Grundy Disability Group, we help clients navigate both the medical and non-medical disability requirements of SSDI. You can rely on our legal team to help you understand the entire application process.
For more information on SSDI non-medical requirements, continue reading or check out our informative video.
Non-Medical Requirements for SSDI Benefits
The SSA sets specific guidelines for SSDI applicants beyond proving disability. In short, non-medical requirements for disability are about your work history, age, and how much you have paid into the Social Security system. If you don’t meet the qualifications, you could be denied benefits even if your medical case is strong.
Below, we go further into the various non-medical criteria the SSA sets for SSDI applicants.
Work Credits
The most important non-medical requirement for SSDI relates to work credits. SSDI operates like an insurance program. You pay into the system through Social Security (FICA) taxes, and in return, you become “insured” for benefits.
- For most people over age 31, you need at least 20 work credits earned in the last 10 years before your disability began.
- You can earn up to 4 work credits per year, based on your taxable wages or self-employment income.
- Younger workers need fewer credits.
This system ensures that only those who have worked and contributed recently can get benefits.
Duration of Work Test
Along with the total number of work credits, the SSA also applies a “duration of work” test requirement. This measures whether an applicant has worked long enough over their entire history to accumulate the necessary credits.
The requirements for the work duration test can vary based on individual circumstances. However, there are general guidelines about how long you need to work to qualify for SSDI, based on your age.
- If you’re 31 or older, you typically need to have worked a minimum of 5 out of the last 10 years.
- If you’re younger, the requirements scale down. For example, if you’re under age 28, then you generally need 1 and a half years of work.
Understanding these rules is critical. Even workers with long careers may run into trouble if they left the workforce long before applying for SSDI.
Age and Timing of Disability
Another factor in qualifying for SSDI benefits is age. You must become disabled before reaching your “full retirement age” as defined by the SSA. Once you reach retirement age, you no longer qualify for SSDI, and you will receive retirement benefits instead.
Inability To Perform Any Old or New Work
Another key qualification for SSDI benefits is showing that your condition prevents you from performing past work and any new work that might exist in the national economy. This requirement bridges the medical and non-medical sides of your claim.
If you can’t return to your old job, the SSA then considers whether you could reasonably transition to other types of work. They look at your disability, age, education, and skills. Older workers often have an advantage here. The SSA recognizes that retraining for entirely new careers becomes more difficult as you age.
Citizenship or Legal Residency
SSDI is a federal program, and applicants must be either U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or lawfully present in the country. Essentially, you must show you are legally allowed to live and work in the United States.
Income Considerations
Unlike Supplemental Security Income (SSI), SSDI does not impose strict limits on personal resources like savings or property. However, your work activity and earnings still matter.
The SSA looks at Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) to decide if you are earning “too much” to be considered disabled. In 2025, this limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals. If you earn more than that through work, you typically will not qualify for SSDI.
How Non-Medical Disability Requirements Differ From SSI
SSDI and SSI are separate programs with different non-medical requirements. SSI is needs-based and has strict limits on assets and resources for claimants. SSDI, on the other hand, focuses on your work credits, current income, and whether you have paid enough into the system.
Why Work With an SSDI Attorney?
Meeting the non-medical requirements for disability is often confusing. Many people mistakenly assume that a strong medical case is enough, only to be denied because they fall short on work credits or exceed financial limits.
At Grundy Disability Group, we handle everything Social Security, from initial applications to disability appeals. We know the rules and can help you present the strongest possible case.
Get a Free Case Evaluation
If you’re wondering what the non-medical eligibility requirements are for SSDI or have been denied benefits, you’re not alone. Contact Grundy Disability Group for a free case evaluation.
Our firm is proud to serve clients in Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. With deep local roots and a family legacy of legal service, we understand both the law and the communities we represent. Whether you’re just starting your application or facing an appeal, our team is here to guide you.
