To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), individuals must accumulate a certain number of Social Security work credits, earned through employment and the payment of Social Security taxes.
These credits determine eligibility for benefits, but they do not directly affect the amount received.
How Are Social Security Credits Earned?
Since 1978, individuals can earn up to four Social Security credits per year.
The number of credits obtained depends on total annual earnings rather than the length of time worked.
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In 2025, one credit is awarded for every $1,810 earned.
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To receive the maximum four credits, an individual must earn $7,240 in the year.
Worth reading: Social Security Payment Schedule for February 2025: Here’s When You’ll Get Paid
How Many Credits Are Required for SSDI?
Generally, a worker must earn 40 credits over their lifetime to qualify, which typically means 10 years of work.
However, the number of credits required depends on the worker’s age at the onset of disability:
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Under 24 years old: Requires six credits earned within the three years before disability onset.
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Ages 24–30: Must have worked half the time between age 21 and the disability onset.
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Ages 31 and older: Requires at least 20 credits earned in the 10 years before disability.
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Ages 60 and older: Must have 9.5 years of work history.
Check this out: Disability Benefits in February 2025: SSDI and SSI Payment Schedule
What Happens to Your Earned Credits?
Once work credits are earned, they remain on a worker’s Social Security record permanently, even if employment status changes or there is a break in earnings.
Survivors Benefits and Work Credits
A similar system is used for Survivors Benefits, which provide financial support to eligible family members when a worker who paid Social Security taxes passes away.
The number of credits required for eligibility depends on the deceased’s age at death.
Who Qualifies for Survivors Benefits?
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A surviving spouse (full benefits at retirement age or reduced benefits from age 60).
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A disabled surviving spouse (benefits starting at age 50).
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A surviving spouse of any age caring for a child under 16 or a disabled child.
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Unmarried children under 18 (or up to 19 if still in school).
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Disabled adult children (condition must have begun before age 22).
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Dependent parents aged 62 or older.
Final Thoughts
Each year, the amount required to earn work credits increases in line with wage growth, meaning future requirements may change.
Understanding how credits work ensures workers and their families are aware of their potential SSDI and Survivors Benefits eligibility.
For more details, visit the Social Security Administration website.
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