Eligibility Requirements for SSDI in Alabama

Work History and Social Security Contributions

One of the primary requirements to qualify for SSDI is that you must have worked and contributed to Social Security through payroll taxes. Here’s how the SSA determines your eligibility:

• Work Credits: The SSA uses a system of work credits to determine whether you have worked long enough to qualify for SSDI benefits. You earn work credits based on your annual income from work. In 2025, you earn one work credit for every $1,640 you earn, up to a maximum of four work credits per year. Typically, you need 40 work credits, with 20 of those credits earned in the last 10 years, to qualify.
• Younger Applicants: If you are younger than 31, the required number of work credits decreases. For example, if you are 24 years old, you may only need 12 work credits in the past 6 years.

Note: The SSA also requires that you have worked recently (within the last 5-10 years) depending on your age.

Medical Condition or Disability

To qualify for SSDI in Alabama, your disability must be severe enough to prevent you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). The SSA uses a five-step evaluation process to determine whether your medical condition qualifies as a disability:

• Step 1: Are you working? If you are working and earning above a certain income threshold (SGA limit), the SSA may determine that you are not disabled.
• Step 2: Is your condition severe? Your condition must significantly limit your ability to perform basic work-related tasks (e.g., sitting, standing, concentrating). It must also last at least 12 months or be expected to result in death.
• Step 3: Is your condition on the SSA’s Listing of Impairments? If your condition is listed in the SSA’s Listing of Impairments (e.g., cancer, heart disease, mental health disorders), it may qualify you for SSDI benefits.
• Step 4: Can you do your past work? The SSA will assess whether you can perform any of the work you’ve done in the past. If not, they will move to the next step.
• Step 5: Can you do other work? If you cannot perform your past work, the SSA will evaluate whether you can perform any other type of work based on your skills, age, and education.

Duration of Disability

Your condition must be expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death. This means that short-term conditions or temporary disabilities typically do not qualify for SSDI benefits. The SSA requires medical documentation to support that your condition is long-term and severe.

Medical Documentation

The SSA requires solid medical evidence to verify your disability. You will need to provide:

• Doctor’s reports: This includes your diagnosis, treatment history, and the impact of your condition on your ability to work.
• Test results: Medical tests such as X-rays, MRIs, lab results, and any other relevant diagnostic reports that support the severity of your condition.
• Treatment plans: Documentation from your doctor showing the treatment you are receiving, including medications, surgeries, physical therapy, or other interventions.
• Function reports: These reports detail how your condition limits your ability to carry out daily tasks and work responsibilities.

Strong medical evidence is critical for qualifying for SSDI, so it’s essential to ensure that your records are up-to-date and comprehensive.

Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) Limit

The SSA defines Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) as work that involves significant physical or mental effort and earns you a certain income. In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,470 per month for individuals who are not blind. If you are earning more than this amount, the SSA may determine that you are not disabled and therefore do not qualify for SSDI.

Steps to Apply for SSDI in Alabama

Step 1: Gather Necessary Documents

Before applying for SSDI in Alabama, make sure you have the following documents:

• Proof of work history: This includes your W-2s, tax returns, and detailed information about your past jobs.
• Medical records: Gather all relevant medical documentation, including doctor’s notes, test results, and treatment plans.
• Social Security number and birth certificate: Proof of your identity and age.

Step 2: Submit Your Application

You can apply for SSDI in Alabama by:

• Online: The fastest way is to apply through the SSA’s website at www.ssa.gov.
• By phone: You can also apply by calling the SSA’s national helpline at 1-800-772-1213.
• In-person: Visit your local SSA office in Alabama to submit your application.

During the application process, be prepared to answer questions about your medical condition, work history, and daily limitations.

Step 3: Wait for a Decision

After you submit your application, the SSA will review your case and make a decision. The approval process can take several months, so be prepared for a wait. If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision.