Louisiana SSDI Attorney Explains Work Credits and How They Impact SSDI Eligibility
The Social Security Administration’s processes are complex, but understanding some of the basics can help you better understand your rights, benefits, and eligibility. Get a breakdown of what work credits are in the SSA guidelines and why they matter when it comes to Social Security Disability Benefits.
Phillip M. Hendry Law has the knowledge and skill to help you navigate the SSDI application and feel at ease with the process. Our firm has handled many SSDI cases in Louisiana, East Texas, and Southwest Arkansas, and we’ll treat you with the care, compassion, and professionalism you deserve. Contact a qualified SSDI lawyer for a free consultation to learn more about the next steps for your situation.
Work Credits Explained
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has multiple guidelines in place to help review and distribute benefits. One of the core components in this process is work credits, which the SSA defines as the basic “building blocks” to determine if you are eligible for various benefits. Some key facts about work credits to know:
- Work credits are equivalent to a monetary amount that can change each year (for 2024, you can earn one Social Security and Medicare credit for every $1,730 earned).
- Credits are based on the total income earned during a year’s timeframe, regardless of when you worked.
- You can earn a maximum number of four work credits per year.
- Earning more credits does not equate to more benefits, though you must have a minimum number of credits for each type of SSA benefit.
You can log in or create an account and check your work credits on the SSA website.
How Work Credits Impact SSDI Eligibility
If you have a condition that impacts your ability to function in daily life and your ability to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA), you may be able to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance. SSDI benefits are available if you meet specific criteria for your medical condition and the work credit requirements.
General Eligibility for SSDI
You must have a qualifying health condition that is a medically determinable impairment (MDI). You must support your application with specific evidence from acceptable medical sources (AMS), and you must show that the condition must impact your ability to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA) and that you have a minimum number of work credits. To be eligible for SSDI benefits, people must generally have 40 credits, but work credits must meet both a recent work test and a duration test. Working with an SSDI lawyer can also help you get approved.
Recent Work Test
The recent work test varies depending on age. The SSA guidelines for the recent work test are as follows:
- Prior to age 24: You must have earned six credits within the three-year period ending when your disability starts
- Ages 24 to 31: You are generally eligible if you’ve worked half-time before age 21 and the age your disability began
- Aged 31 and beyond: You are generally eligible if you have at least 20 work credits in the ten years before your disability began
Duration Test
The duration test requires a certain number of years of work credits according to age, but the work does not have to fall within a certain number of years. The SSA provides an estimate of work years for the duration test, but it doesn’t cover all situations, nor does it specifically cover blindness. Working with a qualified SSDI lawyer can help you with the specifics of your situation. General examples of work years for the duration test include:
- Before age 28: 1.5 years
- Age 30: 2 years
- Age 34: 3 years
- Age 38: 4 years
- Age 42: 5 years
- Age 50: 7 years
- Age 54: 8 years
- Age 58: 9 years
- Age 60: 9.5 years
SSI Could Be an Option If You Don’t Have Enough Work Credits
There are still options if you don’t have enough work credits to be eligible for SSDI. Supplemental Social Security Income (SSI) provides monthly payments to individuals with limited or no income. To qualify for SSI, you must also have a disability, blindness, or be age 65 or older. How much SSI you receive is impacted by:
- Income from work
- Income from non-work sources
- Spousal income
- Any other support, such as state support
Other factors could impact SSI amounts, such as items you own. You must report details like income and any changes to your resources or living situation each month to remain eligible.
Phillip M. Hendry Law Can Help You Navigate the SSDI Application Process
If these facts and figures seem confusing, you’re not alone. It can be frustrating to navigate the complex and unfamiliar information around SSA’s guidelines, which is why an experienced SSDI lawyer can help. We can ease the stress and help ensure your SSDI or SSI application is error-free. The legal team at Phillip M. Hendry Law can answer your questions and guide you through the process, working with you toward getting the benefits you need and deserve.