One of the critical requirements for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is to make sure you have a sufficient number of work credits to qualify. For many people this is not a serious impediment, but for others it can be the difference between obtaining SSDI benefits and not. But what exactly happens if you do not have enough work credits for SSDI?
What Are Work Credits?
Work credits are essentially a measurement of the amount of paid work you have done, as represented by the Social Security taxes you pay. This includes both work done as an employee of another company, as well as people who are self-employed. You need a minimum of 40 work credits over ten years to qualify for SSDI benefits, or less if you are 30 or under.
How Do You Earn Work Credits?
As the name suggests, you earn work credits by doing work. Each work credit effectively represents $1,730 of paid work in one fiscal quarter, which means you can earn up to four work credits in a year by earning $6,920 in a single year. Fortunately, you do not need to earn that money over time; so long as you earn at least $6,920 in one year, you will earn a maximum of four work credits.
What Happens if You Do Not Have Enough Credits?
If you do not have a sufficient number of credits to qualify for SSDI benefits, it is very likely that you will not be able to get those benefits. However, that does not mean you will lose the opportunity to get disability benefits entirely. Other programs, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI), may allow you to obtain benefits to help with your bills even if you have not performed a sufficient amount of work.
What Should You Do?
If you are interested in obtaining SSDI, SSI, or any other disability benefits, you should make sure to speak to a lawyer with experience handling disability applications. They can assist you with your claims and ensure you get the best possible outcome for your case. The sooner you call, the sooner they can begin to work for you.
If you or a loved one need assistance applying for SSDI or SSI benefits, it is important that you seek the guidance of an experienced Social Security Disability benefits lawyer. The lawyers at Sullivan & Kehoe, LLP have over 50 years of combined experience between its attorneys and are available to you or your loved one in obtaining Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income benefits. To schedule a consultation with our New York Social Security Disability benefits lawyers, call (631) 823-7155.
