When applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, it’s important to understand how work credits factor into your eligibility. Work credits are earned through employment and are a key requirement for receiving SSDI benefits. Without the necessary number of work credits, even if you have a qualifying disability, you may not be eligible for SSDI.
In this blog, we will explain how work credits work and what you need to know about earning them to qualify for SSDI benefits. Contact PLBH at (800) 435-7542 for a free legal consultation.
What Are Work Credits?
Work credits are units used by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to determine whether you have worked enough to be eligible for SSDI benefits. These credits are earned based on your income from employment or self-employment. For each year you work and pay Social Security taxes (through payroll deductions or self-employment tax), you accumulate work credits.
As of 2024, you earn one work credit for every $1,640 in wages or self-employment income, with a maximum of four credits per year. This means that even if you only work part of the year, you can still earn all four credits if you meet the income threshold.
How Many Work Credits Do You Need for SSDI?
The number of work credits you need to qualify for SSDI depends on two factors: your age and when your disability began. The older you are when you become disabled, the more credits you will generally need to qualify. Here’s a breakdown:
1. If You’re Under 24 Years Old
If you become disabled before the age of 24, you generally need six work credits earned in the three years before your disability began. Since younger individuals haven’t had as much time to work, the SSA requires fewer credits.
2. If You’re Between 24 and 31 Years Old
For individuals who become disabled between the ages of 24 and 31, you generally need credits for half the time between age 21 and the onset of your disability. For example, if you became disabled at age 27, you would need three years of work credits (12 credits) from the six years since you turned 21.
3. If You’re Over 31 Years Old
Once you reach the age of 31, you will generally need at least 20 work credits earned in the 10 years before your disability began. The older you are, the more credits you will need, with the maximum requirement being 40 credits (equivalent to 10 years of work).
What If You Don’t Have Enough Work Credits?
If you don’t have enough work credits to qualify for SSDI, you may not be eligible for benefits. However, you do have options depending on your circumstances:
1. Continue Working to Earn More Credits
If you are still able to work in some capacity, you can continue working to earn more credits. Since you can earn up to four credits per year, it’s possible to accumulate the necessary credits over time, provided your condition does not worsen.
2. Consider Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
If you don’t have enough work credits and you have limited income and resources, you may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI is a needs-based program that does not require work credits but has strict income and asset limits. An attorney at PLBH can help you determine whether you qualify for SSI.
How to Check Your Work Credit Status
It’s important to keep track of your work credits to ensure you meet the requirements for SSDI. You can check your work credit status by creating a “my Social Security” account on the SSA’s website. Through this account, you can view your work history, the number of credits you’ve earned, and your estimated benefits.
If you have questions about your work credits or how they affect your eligibility for SSDI, an attorney at PLBH can assist you in reviewing your status and advising on your options.
Filing for SSDI with the Help of an Attorney
The SSDI application process can be complex, especially when determining whether you meet the work credit requirements. An experienced attorney at PLBH can help you navigate the system, ensuring that all necessary documentation is included and that you meet the eligibility criteria.
If you’re unsure about your work credits or need assistance with your SSDI application, contact PLBH at (800) 435-7542 to speak with a skilled attorney who can guide you through the process and help you pursue the benefits you deserve.