SSDI Eligibility Requirements in Alabama

Understanding the eligibility criteria for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in Alabama is crucial for those seeking benefits. Here’s what you need to know to determine if you qualify:

• Disability Criteria – To qualify for SSDI in Alabama, you must have a severe medical condition that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death.
• Work Credits – You must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security and earned a sufficient number of work credits. Generally, you need 20 credits earned over the past 10 years, but younger workers may require fewer credits.
• Recent Work History – You must have worked recently enough to qualify. If you are under 31, you may be able to qualify with fewer credits, depending on your age when you became disabled.
• Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) – If you are currently working, your earnings must be below the SSA’s monthly SGA limit to qualify for SSDI. Earning above this limit generally disqualifies you from benefits.
• Medically Determinable Condition – You need to have a condition that is supported by medical evidence. Your doctors will need to provide details about your diagnosis, treatment, and the severity of your disability.

Important Tips for SSDI Applicants in Alabama:

• Document Your Disability – Make sure all your medical records and treatments are thoroughly documented. These will play a significant role in proving your disability.
• Work History Matters – Your eligibility is heavily influenced by your work history. Ensure your employment records are accurate and up-to-date.
• Know the SGA Limits – Be aware of the Substantial Gainful Activity limits so that you can avoid disqualifying yourself if you are working part-time while applying for SSDI.

What Happens After You Apply for SSDI in Alabama

Once you’ve applied for SSDI benefits, there are several important steps that follow. Here’s what you can expect:

• Initial Application Review – The SSA will first review your eligibility by examining your work history, medical condition, and whether you meet the disability requirements.
• Medical Review – Your medical records will be sent to a state agency, which will determine if your condition qualifies under SSA’s guidelines for disability.
• SSA Decision – After reviewing your case, the SSA will notify you of their decision. If approved, you’ll begin receiving monthly SSDI benefits. If denied, you can appeal the decision.
• Appeals Process – If your application is denied, don’t lose hope. You have the right to appeal. The appeals process includes:

1. Reconsideration – A second review of your case by a different SSA representative.
2. Hearing – If reconsideration fails, you can request a hearing with an administrative law judge.
3. Appeals Council – If the hearing is unsuccessful, the Appeals Council will review the case.
4. Federal Court – If necessary, you can appeal to a federal court for a final decision.

Key Factors Affecting SSDI Eligibility in Alabama

Several factors influence your eligibility for SSDI benefits in Alabama. Here’s a closer look:



• Duration of Disability – You must be able to prove that your condition has lasted, or is expected to last, for at least 12 months or result in death. This is one of the main criteria for eligibility.
• Work History and Credits – The SSA requires a specific number of work credits depending on your age. The number of credits needed increases with age. For example:
• Under 24 years old – 6 credits in the last 3 years.
• 24-31 years old – 12 credits in the last 6 years.
• 31 years or older – 20 credits in the last 10 years.
• Severe Medical Condition – Your medical condition must be severe enough that it prevents you from engaging in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) for at least 12 months.