Work History and Credits

To qualify for SSDI, you must have a sufficient work history. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a system of work credits to determine if you have worked enough to qualify.

• Work Credits: You can earn up to four work credits per year, and the number of credits needed depends on your age at the time you become disabled.
• Typically, you need 40 work credits (with at least 20 earned in the last 10 years) to qualify. Younger workers may qualify with fewer credits.
• How to Check: You can check your work credits and history through your Social Security account at www.ssa.gov/myaccount.

Medical Condition

To qualify for SSDI in Pennsylvania, your disability must meet the SSA’s definition of “disability.” This means your condition must:

• Be severe enough to prevent you from working and performing basic daily tasks
• Last at least 12 months or be expected to result in death
• Be included in the SSA’s Listing of Impairments or be of equal severity to a listed condition

The SSA’s Listing of Impairments outlines various physical and mental conditions that qualify for SSDI. If your condition is not listed, you can still qualify if you can prove that your condition is medically equivalent to a listed impairment.

Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)

To qualify for SSDI, you must not be engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). In 2025, the SSA considers any monthly earnings over $1,470 ($2,460 if you’re blind) as SGA. If you earn more than this amount, you may not qualify for SSDI benefits, as the SSA assumes you are capable of working.

• Important: Even if you can no longer perform your previous job, if you are earning above the SGA limit, you will not be considered disabled under SSDI rules.

Disability Duration and Severity

The SSA must determine that your disability is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. If your condition is temporary or doesn’t meet this duration requirement, you will not qualify for SSDI benefits.

• Expected Duration: Conditions that are expected to improve within a year typically don’t meet the SSA’s criteria for SSDI.
• Severe Impairment: Your disability must be severe enough to significantly limit your ability to work and perform basic daily activities.

Citizenship and Residency Requirements

To be eligible for SSDI in Pennsylvania, you must be:

• A U.S. citizen, or
• A lawful permanent resident who has worked and paid Social Security taxes in the U.S.

If you’re applying from outside the U.S., additional rules may apply.