How long do I have to work to qualify for Social Security Disability?

 

The amount of work necessary to qualify for disability benefits depends on your age.  Social Security quantifies your work history in terms of work credits.  Usually, you need 20 work credits earned in the last 10 years.

 

However, younger workers can qualify for disability benefits with fewer work credits.  If you become disabled before age 24, you must have earned 6 credits in the three years prior to the onset of your disability.  If you become disabled between age 24 and 31, you need credits for half the time between age 21 and the onset of your disability.  For example, if you become disabled at age 29, you would need four years of prior work, or 16 credits.

 

 

 

 

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