Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a vital safety net that provides financial support to people who can’t work due to a disability. To qualify for SSDI benefits, applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria, and one of the key components is the accumulation of Social Security work credits. Understanding how many work credits you need for SSDI is crucial. The Social Security Disability attorneys at Nappa, Monterosso & Poznansky, LLP, help clients in the greater NYC area understand the nuances of SSDI work credits. We can evaluate your case and determine how your work history may affect your Social Security Disability claim.
What Are Social Security Work Credits?
Social Security work credits are used by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to determine eligibility for various benefits, including SSDI. These credits are earned based on your work history and payment of Social Security taxes. In 2023, you earn one credit per $1,640 in wages or self-employment income and may earn up to four credits per year. This means that when you’ve made at least $6,560 you’ve earned your four credits for the year. Eligibility for Social Security Disability survivor benefits is based on the deceased person’s work history, not the survivor’s own work credits.
It’s important to note that work credits are specific to SSDI eligibility. If you’re applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), work credits are not a factor. SSI is a program for disabled people with limited income and resources. It is determined based on financial need rather than work history.
How Many Work Credits Do You Need for SSDI?
The number of work credits you need to qualify for Social Security Disability benefits depends on your age. In most cases, you need a total of 40 work credits to qualify for SSDI benefits, and 20 of those credits must have been earned in the 10 years preceding the onset of your disability.
Younger workers may need fewer credits to qualify, as they have not had as much time in the workforce. For example, if you become disabled under the age of 24, you may qualify with as few as six credits earned in the three years before your disability began. You can check your Social Security statement on the SSA’s website to see how many work credits you’ve earned.
A Social Security Disability Lawyer Can Review Your Work Credits for SSDI
An SSDI lawyer can assist you with the Social Security Disability application process from start to finish. They can review your work history and figure out whether you’ve accumulated the required number of work credits for SSDI eligibility. They can also help you understand all the specifics of Social Security Disability eligibility criteria and advise you on how to meet these requirements.
Calculating SSDI work credits can sometimes be complex, especially if you have a spotty work history or you’re self-employed. If you have gaps in your work history, a disability lawyer can offer guidance on how to address these gaps to strengthen your SSDI claim. They ensure that all eligible work credits are accurately calculated and maximize your chances of a successful claim.
In addition to helping you sort out your work credits, your Social Security Disability attorney helps you provide adequate medical documentation with your SSDI application. Having a lawyer help you prepare a comprehensive and compelling application also can reduce the likelihood of errors or omissions that could affect your SSDI eligibility. If your initial application is denied, they can help you navigate the appeals process.
If you have questions about your work history, the number of credits you’ve earned, or your eligibility for SSDI, you can trust the Social Security Disability lawyers at Nappa, Monterosso & Poznansky, LLP, to offer guidance on the best path forward for a successful claim.
Contact a Social Security Disability Lawyer in the Greater NYC Area
The Social Security Disability attorneys at Nappa, Monterosso & Poznansky, LLP, are dedicated to serving injured workers and SSDI applicants on Staten Island and in the greater NYC area. Attorney and partner Rolando Cubela offers top-notch legal representation to our Spanish-speaking clients. To schedule a free consultation with a disability attorney, call us at 718-273-9000 or contact us online.
