SSDI Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for SSDI benefits in Massachusetts, you must meet two main criteria:

1. Work Credits

• You must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security and paid Social Security taxes.
• The number of work credits required depends on your age at the time you become disabled.
• Generally, you need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before becoming disabled. Younger workers may qualify with fewer credits.

2. Medical Disability

• You must have a medical condition that meets the SSA's strict definition of disability.
• Your condition must prevent you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA).
• The disability must last (or be expected to last) at least 12 months or result in death.

The SSDI Eligibility Process in Massachusetts

Step 1: Initial Application

• Submit an SSDI application online, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at a local SSA office in Massachusetts.
• Provide detailed medical records, work history, and personal information.

Step 2: Review by Disability Determination Services (DDS)

• The SSA forwards your case to Massachusetts Disability Determination Services (DDS).
• DDS reviews your medical evidence and may request additional documentation.
• You might be asked to attend a Consultative Exam (CE) for further evaluation.

Step 3: Five-Step Evaluation Process

DDS follows a standardized five-step process to assess SSDI eligibility:

1. Are you working above the SGA level?
   If you’re earning too much, you may not qualify.
2. Is your condition severe?
   The condition must significantly limit your ability to perform basic work activities.
3. Does your condition meet a listed impairment?
   The SSA has a list of qualifying impairments. If your condition matches, you're considered disabled.
4. Can you perform past work?
   DDS assesses if you can do the work you did before becoming disabled.
5. Can you adjust to other work?
   If you can't do past work, DDS evaluates if you can do other types of work given your age, education, and skills.

Step 4: Decision Notification

• You’ll receive a decision by mail.
• If approved, you'll be informed about your benefit amount and when payments will start.
• If denied, you’ll receive a letter explaining the reasons and your right to appeal.

How Long Does the SSDI Eligibility Process Take?

• Initial decisions typically take 3 to 6 months.
• If denied, the appeals process can take additional time.
• Factors like case complexity and DDS workload can affect processing times.