The Social Security Disability in California program and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are two programs run by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that provide financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability. Understanding the eligibility requirements for these programs is crucial for individuals who may be seeking to apply. This article outlines the key criteria that must be met in order to qualify for Social Security Disability benefits.

1. Work History Requirement (SSD)

The Social Security Disability (SSD) program is designed for individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes over a significant period of time. The eligibility for SSDI is largely determined by an individual’s work history, which is measured in “work credits.”

A person earns work credits by paying Social Security taxes (FICA) while they are employed. The number of work credits required depends on the individual’s age when they became disabled. In general, a person needs 40 credits, 20 of which must have been earned in the last 10 years leading up to the disability onset. For younger individuals, fewer credits are required.

Walker Firm, operating under the client-facing brand Casa de la Justicia, helps Spanish-speaking clients with their Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claims. Based in Los Angeles, CA, and founded in 2022, we maintain a remarkable over 70% hearing win rate, surpassing the national average of 55%. With our robust media strategy, we attract over 2,000 clients annually. In addition, we partner with other local attorneys to ensure the thousands of injured Latinos that call us daily have access to experienced Spanish-speaking attorneys for all their needs, including worker’s compensation, auto accidents and slip and fall cases. For expert SSDI support and broader legal services, we are your go-to resource.

2. Disability Definition

A critical aspect of SSDI eligibility is meeting the SSA’s definition of “disability.” The SSA uses a strict definition that considers whether an individual’s condition prevents them from engaging in any substantial gainful activity (SGA).

In 2024, the SGA limit for non-blind individuals is $1,470 per month, and $2,460 per month for blind individuals. This means that if a person is capable of earning above these amounts through work, they may not be considered disabled according to the SSA’s guidelines.

The condition must also be expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death. Temporary or partial disabilities do not qualify for SSDI benefits. Additionally, the SSA maintains a listing of impairments known as the “Blue Book,” which outlines specific medical conditions that automatically qualify as disabling if they meet the severity criteria.

3. Medical Evidence

Applicants must provide substantial medical evidence to support their claim of disability. This includes medical records, laboratory results, doctors’ notes, and a history of treatments and medications. The SSA will often request additional medical examinations or consultative exams to evaluate the severity of the condition.

An applicant’s medical condition must either meet or equal one of the listed impairments in the SSA’s Blue Book, or if not listed, must still prevent the person from performing any kind of substantial work, including their previous job or any other work that exists in significant numbers in the national economy.

4. Duration Requirement

To be eligible for SSDI, the disabling condition must be long-term. The SSA does not provide benefits for short-term or partial disabilities. The impairment must have lasted, or be expected to last, for at least 12 months or result in death. If the condition is expected to improve before 12 months, the individual may not qualify for SSDI.

5. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

While SSDI is for individuals with a work history, the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program is available for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. SSI is a needs-based program, meaning that applicants must meet strict financial requirements.

For SSI, the income limits are much stricter than SSDI’s SGA limits. In 2024, the federal benefit rate (FBR) is $914 per month for individuals and $1,371 for couples. To qualify for SSI, an individual must not only meet the disability criteria but also fall below these income and asset thresholds. The asset limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple, excluding certain assets like a primary residence and one vehicle.

6. Age Requirements

SSDI benefits can be available to people of any age, provided they meet the work credit and disability requirements. However, SSDI is primarily for adults who have worked and contributed to the Social Security system. Children with disabilities may also be eligible for SSI if their family’s income and resources are below certain limits.

For those over the age of 65, SSDI is not available, but they may transition to Social Security retirement benefits or be eligible for SSI if they meet the financial and disability criteria.

7. Residency and Citizenship

Applicants for Social Security Disability benefits must generally be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. Some non-citizens may qualify under certain circumstances, particularly if they have worked and paid into the Social Security system.

8. Continuing Disability Reviews

Once approved, beneficiaries are subject to periodic continuing disability reviews (CDRs) to ensure that they still meet the medical and work-related criteria for receiving benefits. These reviews can occur every few years depending on the likelihood of medical improvement.

If the SSA determines that the person is no longer disabled or able to work, their benefits may be discontinued.

Qualifying for Social Security Disability benefits can be a complex process, with multiple criteria to meet, including work history, financial status, and medical evidence of a long-term disabling condition. Understanding these eligibility requirements is essential for navigating the application process and securing the support needed during a time of financial and medical hardship.