Basic SSDI Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for SSDI in Massachusetts, you must meet two major requirements: a work history and a medical disability recognized by the Social Security Administration (SSA).

1. Work History

You must have worked long enough—and recently enough—while paying Social Security taxes. The SSA uses "work credits" to measure this:

• You can earn up to 4 credits per year
• Most applicants need 20 credits earned in the last 10 years
• Younger workers may qualify with fewer credits, depending on their age

2. Medical Disability

Your condition must meet the SSA’s definition of disability:

• Must be severe enough to prevent you from working
• Must last (or be expected to last) at least 12 months, or be terminal
• Must either match a listed condition or be proven to stop you from doing substantial work

SSA’s Five-Step Disability Evaluation

The SSA uses a five-step process to determine if you are disabled:

1. Are you working?
   If you’re earning above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, your claim may be denied.
2. Is your condition severe?
   Your condition must interfere with basic work-related tasks.
3. Is your condition listed?
   If your condition is in the SSA’s Listing of Impairments and meets the criteria, you may automatically qualify.
4. Can you do your past work?
   If your condition prevents you from doing your previous jobs, the SSA moves to step 5.
5. Can you do other work?
   The SSA considers your age, education, and skills to determine if you can adjust to other types of work.

Medical Evidence Required

Your SSDI application must be supported with detailed medical documentation:

• Doctor's diagnoses and treatment history
• Lab results, imaging, and specialist reports
• A statement from your doctor describing how your condition limits your ability to work
• Records of medications and therapies

How Long Must You Be Disabled?

To qualify, your disability must:

• Last at least 12 months, or
• Be expected to result in death

Short-term or partial disabilities do not qualify under SSDI rules.

Massachusetts-Specific Notes

While SSDI is a federal program, residents in Massachusetts can also access support through state-based services to help them apply. These include local Social Security field offices and Massachusetts-specific disability advocacy programs that can help you understand your rights and strengthen your application.