Understanding Work History Requirements

SSDI eligibility generally requires:

• Accumulating enough work credits by paying Social Security taxes.
• The amount of credits depends on your age at disability onset.
• Most adults need about 20 credits earned in the previous 10 years before disability begins.

What If You Don’t Have a Work History?

In Alabama, lacking work history means:

• You usually cannot qualify for SSDI benefits based on your own earnings record.
• You might be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is needs-based.
• Dependency benefits may apply if you have a disabled or retired parent.

Alternative Benefit Options

Other possible supports include:

• SSI programs which don’t require work credits but have strict income and resource limits.
• State or local assistance programs that can supplement federal benefits.
• Veteran benefits if you qualify through military service.

Importance of Medical Evidence

Regardless of work history, to qualify for disability benefits you must show:

• Severe medical impairments preventing any substantial gainful activity.
• Evidence supported by doctor reports and medical records.
• Disability is expected to last or has lasted at least 12 months or is terminal.

Common Challenges

Be aware of these issues when applying:

• Insufficient work credits to meet SSDI criteria.
• Lack of complete medical documentation supporting the disability.
• Confusing eligibility rules for SSI vs SSDI.
• Delays or denials due to missing proof of disability duration.