Basic SSDI Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for SSDI benefits, you must meet two key requirements:

• Work History (Work Credits)
• You must have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a sufficient period, earning what the SSA calls “work credits.”
• Most people need 40 credits, 20 of which must have been earned in the 10 years prior to becoming disabled.
• Younger individuals may qualify with fewer credits based on their age at the time of disability.
• Medical Disability Requirement
• You must have a severe medical condition that prevents you from engaging in “substantial gainful activity” (SGA).
• Your condition must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
• The SSA uses a five-step evaluation process to determine if your condition qualifies as a disability.

SSA’s Five-Step Disability Evaluation

Understanding this evaluation process helps you know what to expect:

• Step 1: Are You Working?
  If you’re earning more than the monthly SGA limit, your claim may be denied.
• Step 2: Is Your Condition Severe?
  Your impairment must significantly limit your ability to perform basic work activities.
• Step 3: Is Your Condition on the SSA’s Listing of Impairments?
  If your condition is listed, or equals a listed impairment, you may qualify automatically.
• Step 4: Can You Perform Past Work?
  The SSA will assess if you can still do work you’ve done in the past 15 years.
• Step 5: Can You Do Any Other Work?
  If you can’t do past work, the SSA evaluates whether you can do any other type of work based on your age, education, and experience.

Common Medical Conditions That May Qualify

While SSDI doesn’t approve claims based solely on diagnosis, certain conditions often meet SSA criteria when supported by strong medical evidence:

• Musculoskeletal disorders (e.g., back injuries, arthritis)
• Mental health disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety, schizophrenia)
• Neurological conditions (e.g., multiple sclerosis, epilepsy)
• Cardiovascular issues (e.g., heart disease)
• Cancer and immune system disorders

The key is proving how the condition limits your ability to work full-time.

Additional Georgia-Specific Considerations

While the eligibility rules are federal, Georgia Disability Determination Services (DDS) handles the medical review portion of SSDI applications. It’s important to:

• Keep up with local deadlines for appeals and responses
• Maintain regular medical treatment and records from Georgia providers
• Use your local SSA office for in-person help if needed