Question 1

What are the basic requirements to qualify for SSDI?

Accepted Answer

The SSA uses a five-step evaluation. You must not be earning above the SGA limit ($1,620/month in 2026), your condition must be severe and last 12+ months or result in death, it must meet a listing or prevent past work, and you must be unable to adjust to other available work. You also need sufficient work credits based on your age.

Question 2

How many work credits do I need and how are they calculated?

Accepted Answer

In 2026, you earn one work credit per $1,810 of income subject to Social Security taxes, up to 4 per year. Workers 31+ typically need 40 credits with 20 in the last 10 years. Workers disabled between 24 and 30 need credits for half the years since 21. Workers disabled before 24 may need as few as 6 credits.

Question 3

What is the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit for 2026?

Accepted Answer

In 2026, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,700 per month for legally blind individuals. Earning above these amounts means the SSA will deny your claim at Step 1 regardless of medical severity.

Question 4

Can I qualify for SSDI if my condition is not on the SSA's official list?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If your condition does not meet a listing, the SSA evaluates your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) and determines whether any work exists you could perform given your limitations, age, education, and work history. Many SSDI approvals occur at the RFC stage.

Question 5

What medical evidence does the SSA require?

Accepted Answer

The SSA requires clinical notes, laboratory and imaging results, physician statements about functional limitations, and mental health records if applicable. The SSA may schedule a Consultative Examination if records are incomplete. Completeness of medical evidence is the single biggest factor in SSDI approval.

Question 6

How long does an SSDI application take?

Accepted Answer

Initial decisions take 3–6 months. If denied (about 67% of applicants), reconsideration takes another 3–6 months and ALJ hearings take 12–24 months to schedule. Most approvals happen at the ALJ hearing level. The full process averages 18–36 months. Compassionate Allowance cases for terminal conditions can be decided in 2–4 weeks.

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