You might think you need a long work history to qualify for disability benefits. Can you get disability if you never worked? Surprisingly, you actually might be able to. One of the main disability programs, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), is tied to your employment history. But, there’s another program called Supplemental Security Income (SSI) based on need, not work credits.
Many people believe that disability is just for those who’ve held jobs for a long time. If you’ve never had a job and never paid Social Security taxes, getting disability would be impossible, right? Not necessarily. Let’s explore these options.
How SSDI and Work Credits Work
To understand how work history affects disability, let’s talk about how Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) works. SSDI is a federal program that gives monthly benefits to those who can’t work due to a qualifying disability. Think of it like this: while you’re working, you pay Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) taxes that are deducted from each paycheck.
These taxes fund programs like Social Security, Medicare, and SSDI. You earn “work credits” based on how much you make and how long you work. Most people need 40 work credits to be eligible for SSDI.
However, the younger you are when your disability begins, the fewer work credits you might need. For example, if you become disabled before age 24, you might qualify with just six credits earned in the previous three years. However, if you’ve never worked, you won’t meet SSDI requirements, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options.
Can You Get Disability If You’ve Never Worked: Exploring SSI
This is where SSI, or Supplemental Security Income, comes into play. SSI is a lifeline for those with disabilities who haven’t worked enough to qualify for SSDI. This federal program is funded through general tax revenues. SSI is specifically designed to help elderly, blind, or disabled individuals with little or no income.
Qualifying for SSI
Two major factors are involved in qualifying for SSI: medical and financial. Both requirements must be met to receive benefits.
Meeting Medical Requirements
First, you have to show that you have a severe disability that prevents you from working. This is where the SSA’s definition of disability is critical. The SSA requires total disability to be eligible for benefits, unlike some disability programs that might provide partial benefits.
To be considered disabled by the SSA, your medical condition must significantly limit your ability to do basic work activities, like lifting, standing, walking, or remembering. The condition has to be expected to last at least a year or result in death, making it more challenging to qualify.
The SSA maintains a list of medical conditions that automatically qualify for disability benefits if specific criteria are met. This list, known as the “Blue Book,” outlines the severity and duration of various impairments. Some conditions listed in the Blue Book include musculoskeletal disorders, respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular diseases, mental health conditions, and neurological disorders. Even if your condition is not listed in the Blue Book, you can still qualify if you can demonstrate that your impairment prevents you from working.
Meeting Financial Requirements
Second, because SSI is a needs-based program, you can’t have a lot of income or assets. The SSA sets limits on how much income you can receive. There are also limits on the assets, or resources, you can have. In 2024, the average monthly benefit amount for SSI recipients is $698.
Understanding “Resources”
The word “resources” often throws people off. It essentially refers to what you own. Some things that count as “resources” are:
- Cash.
- Money in your bank accounts.
- Stocks, bonds, or other investments.
- A second car (you are usually allowed one for transportation to appointments).
- Land you own.
- Life insurance policies with a combined face value exceeding $1,500.
- Personal property that you could sell for cash.
For 2024, you can’t have more than $2,000 in resources if you’re single or $3,000 if you’re married. If your resources exceed these limits, you will not be eligible to receive SSI benefits.
Resources That Don’t Count
The SSA doesn’t include everything in this resource limit. The SSA doesn’t typically count the house you live in or the car you use for everyday transportation. These exclusions ensure that individuals are not penalized for having essential assets. Other resources that do not count toward the limit include:
Resource | Description |
---|---|
Household goods and personal effects | Furniture, clothing, appliances, and other personal belongings are generally not counted as resources. |
Burial plots and funds | Resources set aside for burial expenses are often excluded, up to a certain limit. |
Trade tools and work equipment | Tools and equipment used for self-employment or to obtain employment are generally not counted. |
Retroactive Social Security benefits | Lump-sum payments received for back benefits are not counted as resources for a certain period. |
Important Points About Disability Benefits
This entire process can be complex, especially when you are dealing with a medical condition. But it’s worth looking into because getting SSI benefits can help cover your basic living expenses.
SSI and Other Aid Programs
If you qualify for SSI, you might also be eligible for other aid programs. Some programs to consider exploring include:
- SNAP benefits (food stamps).
- TANF, also called welfare.
- Medicaid (for healthcare).
- Subsidized housing.
- Utility assistance programs like LIHEAP.
Getting one benefit can sometimes open the door to other types of support. These programs are in place to help people facing difficult times, so do not hesitate to seek assistance if you need it.
If Your Application Is Denied
It is not uncommon to be denied the first time you apply for SSI benefits. Do not let this discourage you. Social Security disability is difficult to win, so there’s an appeals process.
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. This often involves getting more medical documentation or further proof of your condition’s impact on your daily life.
In some situations, getting support during this process could be helpful. This is where contacting a disability attorney experienced with SSI cases might make a difference. Disability lawyers often do free case evaluations and sometimes offer assistance to help you get the benefits you deserve.
FAQs About Can You Get Disability if You Never Worked
Can my spouse get disability if they never worked?
It depends on which disability benefits they’re referring to. If they are referring to SSDI benefits, the answer is likely no, since work history is required for this type of benefit. However, a surviving spouse may be able to collect survivor benefits based on their deceased spouse’s work history.
If they are referring to SSI benefits, they might be eligible if they also meet the medical requirements. Eligibility will depend on your combined income and resources.
How much does SSI pay?
According to the SSA, the maximum monthly SSI benefit for 2024 is $943 for an eligible individual and $1,415 for an eligible individual with an eligible spouse. However, it’s essential to remember that the actual amount you receive can be lower than the maximum. Several factors determine your benefit amount, including your living arrangement, any countable income you or your spouse may have, and whether your state supplements the federal SSI payment.
Conclusion
Can you get disability if you never worked? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. While SSDI is not an option without sufficient work history, SSI provides a path for financial help. SSI hinges on the severity of your disability and your financial resources, not your work history. Contact SSLG today for a free consultation.