Disability Eligibility

When health problems make it hard or impossible to work, help may be available through Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Both programs are managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA), but they have different rules for who qualifies. Knowing which program is right for you can be confusing — and that’s where DisabilityResourceHelp.com can make a big difference.

SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is for people who worked and paid into Social Security but can no longer work because of a long-term medical condition.

To qualify, you must:

• Have a serious medical condition that keeps you from working full-time.
• The condition must last (or be expected to last) at least 12 months or result in death.
• Have enough work credits from jobs where you paid Social Security taxes.
• Be under age 65 when you apply.

✅ Example 1: ‘Mark’ MAY Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits*

Mark, 45, worked in construction for 20 years. He developed degenerative disc disease that causes constant back pain and prevents him from lifting, bending, or standing for long hours. Because Mark paid Social Security taxes for many years and his condition will last more than 12 months, he may qualify for SSDI benefits.

✅ Example 2: ‘Sarah’ MAY Qualify as a Younger Worker for Disability Benefits (SSDI)*

Sarah, 32, was a delivery driver who suffered serious leg and hip injuries in a car accident. She no longer can drive or sit for long periods. Even though she has fewer years of work, she earned enough recent work credits to qualify for SSDI.

❌ Example 3: ‘Kevin’ MAY NOT Qualify for SSDI*

Kevin, 29, hurt his shoulder playing sports and couldn’t work for six weeks. Although the injury was painful, he recovered and returned to work. Because his condition did not last 12 months, and he can still perform substantial work, Kevin may not qualify for SSDI.

❌ Example 4: ‘Emily’ MAY NOT Qualify Due to Work History for Benefits*

Emily, 41, stopped working several years ago to stay home with her kids. She recently developed fibromyalgia, which limits her daily activity. Because she hasn’t worked or paid into Social Security recently, she may not have enough work credits to qualify for SSDI benefits — but she may qualify for SSI if her income is low.

Social Security Disability (SSDI) Key Qualification Points:

• Must have paid into Social Security through work.
• Conditions MUST be severe and last long-term.
• Benefits depend on your past earnings; NOT how serious your disability is.
• After two years on SSDI, you automatically qualify for Medicare benefits, even if you’re under 65 years old.

SSI (Supplemental Security Income) is for people who are disabled, blind, or over 65 and have little or no income or resources.

You do not need work credits to qualify — SSI is based on financial need, not work history.

To qualify, you must:

• Have very limited income and assets (usually less than $2,000 for individuals or $3,000 for couples).
• Be disabled, blind, or age 65 or older.
• Live in the United States and meet citizenship or residency requirements.

✅ Example 1: ‘Rosa’ MAY Qualify for SSI Benefits*

Rosa, 59, has rheumatoid arthritis and can no longer clean homes as she used to. She has less than $1,000 in savings and no recent income. Even though she didn’t earn enough work credits for SSDI, she may still qualify for SSI benefits because of her limited income and severe disability.

✅ Example 2: ‘Liam’ MAY Qualify for SSI as a Child*

Liam, 10, was born with cerebral palsy and needs daily care. His parents’ income is below the SSA limit. Liam may qualify for SSI for children based on his medical condition and family income.

❌ Example 3: ‘Robert’ MAY NOT Qualify for SSI Benefits*

Robert, 63, works part-time at a grocery store and earns $2,000 per month. Even though he has diabetes and arthritis, his income may be too high to meet SSI’s financial limits. Robert may still qualify for SSDI if he has enough work credits — but most likely not for SSI.

❌ Example 4: ‘Linda’ MAY NOT Qualify for Supplemental Security Income Due to Assets*

Linda, 58, has severe COPD and can’t work full-time. She owns a vacation home and has $50,000 in savings. Because her resources exceed SSI limits, she may not qualify for SSI. She may, however, qualify for SSDI if she worked long enough.

Important Question and Answer: Can You Get Both SSDI and SSI?

Yes! — some people qualify for both programs, called concurrent benefits.

✅ Example SSDI & SSI: ‘Angela’ MAY Qualify for SSDI and SSI Benefits*

After being diagnosed with heart failure, she qualified for SSDI but only receives $700 a month. Because her income is still below SSI limits, she may receive both SSDI and SSI to help meet her basic needs.

The examples and information above are for educational purposes only. Every case is unique, and results vary depending on your medical condition, work history, income, and other factors. DisabilityResourceHelp.com is not affiliated with the Social Security Administration (SSA) or ANY Government entity and does not make disability decisions. Always consult a qualified advocate or attorney about your specific situation.

Filing for disability is not easy — most people are denied the first time they apply. Even small mistakes, missing documents, or incorrect forms can delay your claim for months or even years.

That’s why it’s smart to get help from DisabilityResourceHelp.com. Our team connects you with trusted disability advocates and attorneys who know how to get results.

Here’s how we help:

• FAST & FREE Disability Evaluation — Find Out If You May Qualify Before Applying.
• ZERO Upfront Fees — You Don’t Pay ANY Attorney or Advocate in Our Network Unless You WIN!
• 24/7 Disability Expert Help — Our Network of Advocates and Attorneys Gather Your Medical Evidence, Complete Your Application, and File Appeals If Needed.
• Hearing Preparation & Representation — If Your Case Goes Before a Judge (ALJ), Our Attorney and Advocate Network will make sure you’re ready!

Whether you’re applying for the first time, reapplying after a denial, or getting ready for a hearing, having the right advocate by your side can make all the difference. Start Your Free Disability Benefits (SSDI & SSI) Case Review Now!