How long do I have to work to meet SSDI eligibility?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 12/09/2025
How long do I have to work to meet SSDI eligibility? To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked and paid into Social Security for a specific period. The required work duration varies depending on your age at the time you become disabled. Generally, you need to have earned enough work credits, which are accumulated based on your earnings over the years. Most adults need about 5 years of work (or 20 credits) within the last 10 years before becoming disabled to meet SSDI eligibility.
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Work Credits Explained
You earn work credits based on how much you make through:
- Paying Social Security taxes through covered employment.
- A set dollar amount earns you one credit each year (amount adjusts yearly).
- An individual can earn up to 4 credits per year.
Amount of Work Credits Needed
Eligibility depends on your age at disability onset:
- Those under 24 may need as few as .
- Between 24 and 31, you need credits for half the years since age 21.
- Over 31, generally you need 20 credits in the last 10 years.
Recent Work Test
To qualify, you also must meet the recent work requirement:
- You usually need 20 credits earned in the 10 years before your disability.
- This ensures you have a recent work history before the disability began.
Implications of Work History Gaps
If your work history has gaps:
- You might be eligible if you earned enough credits before stopping work.
- Sometimes, SSA reviews your full work record for flexibility.
Additional Considerations
Also note:
- Self-employed workers earn credits based on their net earnings.
- Military service may count toward work credits under certain conditions.
How Hogan Smith Can Help You
Hogan Smith assists Arkansas residents by reviewing your work history and credit records to ensure you meet SSDI eligibility requirements. We help you understand exactly how many work credits you’ve earned and what gaps may affect your claim. Our team guides you through gathering necessary documentation to support your work history for a successful SSDI application. We also provide expert advice on navigating SSA rules regarding work duration and qualifying periods.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you have questions about how long you need to work to qualify for SSDI in Arkansas, contact Hogan Smith now for a free consultation. Our knowledgeable team will help you understand your eligibility status, review your employment record, and plan the best strategy to secure your benefits with confidence.
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