Getting Approved for SSD Benefits When You Can’t Work (2024)

FAQs

Is it possible to get SSDI without enough work credits? ›

You cannot get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits on your own work record if you don't have enough work credits, but you might qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments. While the SSDI program requires applicants to meet a work credits requirement, the SSI program does not.

You currently have fewer than the 40 credits needed to become fully insured for retirement benefits. You can still earn credits and become fully insured if you work. We cannot pay you benefits if you don't have enough credits.

Do not tell the doctor you are “o*kay,” “fine,” or “pretty good” when you are there for an assessment of your condition. Even saying this out of habit could jeopardize your claim. Be honest about your complaints, symptoms, and other details of your condition.

In 2022, you can earn one credit for each $1,510 in income, and you can receive a maximum of four credits per year. Since you must work to pay into the program, you can't claim SSDI benefits if you have never worked.

Generally, it takes about three to five months to get a decision. However, the exact time depends on how long it takes to get your medical records and any other evidence needed to make a decision.

In this case, you could qualify for a temporary VA disability rating of 100%. For example, a service member diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma due to military exposure to Agent Orange may be granted a disability rating of 100% while undergoing treatment.

How do you survive on so little disability income? You might supplement your SSDI benefits by working a little—if you can. But not everyone can. Fortunately, there are other benefits you might be entitled to receive that can help you meet your expenses, including additional Social Security benefits.

But even if you never worked and therefore don't have an earnings record, you're not necessarily out of luck. If you're married (or were married) to someone who's entitled to Social Security, you can collect spousal benefits equal to 50% of your husband or wife's benefits at full retirement age.

What is the least amount of disability you can receive? ›

According to the Social Security Administration, the SSDI payment people get can be between $100 and $3,627. It will all depend on the person'a working history and only on that. People may get $100 as the lowest aid they get but there are very rare occassions where they get that.

Be Honest and Detailed – During the interview, honesty is vital. Clearly describe your medical condition, its limitations, and how it affects your ability to work and carry out daily activities. Don't downplay your symptoms, but also avoid exaggeration.

Don't talk about undiagnosed conditions

If you haven't been formally diagnosed with a condition by your doctor, don't mention it during your disability interview. It's best to answer questions only about the conditions listed on your initial disability application to avoid confusing the SSA.

But even if you never worked and therefore don't have an earnings record, you're not necessarily out of luck. If you're married (or were married) to someone who's entitled to Social Security, you can collect spousal benefits equal to 50% of your husband or wife's benefits at full retirement age.

The Social Security 5-year rule refers specifically to disability benefits. It requires that you must have worked five out of the last ten years immediately before your disability onset to qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).

You can't buy Social Security credits, the income-based building blocks of benefit eligibility. You can't borrow them or transfer them from someone else's record.