Social Security Disability Eligibility If You’ve Never Worked

Can qualify for Social Security Disability benefits if you never worked or paid into the Social Security system? The answer depends on which program you’re applying for: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Here’s a breakdown of how each program works and who is eligible for benefits, even without a work history.

What Is the Difference Between SSDI and SSI?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are two distinct programs under the Social Security Administration, but they have different eligibility requirements.

• SSDI is designed for individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain period. This means that to qualify for SSDI, you typically need to have earned enough work credits. Work credits are accumulated based on your income and the taxes you’ve paid, generally four credits per working years (one per quarter). SSDI is intended for people who have contributed to the system and then become disabled.
• SSI, on the other hand, is a need-based program. You don’t need a work history to qualify for SSI. Instead, eligibility is based on your financial situation, including income and assets. SSI is intended to help those who are disabled, blind, or elderly but have little to no income or resources.

If you’ve never worked or haven’t paid enough into the system for SSDI, you will likely not be eligible for SSDI benefits. However, you may still qualify for SSI if your financial resources are limited, and you meet the disability criteria.

Can You Get SSDI If You Haven’t Worked?

If you’ve never worked or haven’t worked enough to earn the required number of work credits, you will not qualify for SSDI benefits. The SSDI program is specifically designed to provide benefits to those who have contributed to Social Security through their employment.

If you have a qualifying disability, but you’ve never worked, SSDI will not be available to you. You will need to apply for the other main program for disability benefits, Supplemental Security Income (SSI). It’s important to note that SSDI benefits are typically higher than SSI. SSDI benefits are based on the average amount you paid into the Social Security system over your working life.

At The Keener Law Firm, we help individuals prepare, file, and win approval of both SSDI and SSI applications. We have extensive experience handling claims, including those for individuals who have worked and those who have not, to ensure that clients receive the full benefits to which they are entitled.

Can You Get SSI If You’ve Never Worked?

Yes, you can get SSI even if you’ve never worked. SSI is a needs-based program, meaning it is not dependent on your work history. To qualify for SSI, you must meet specific financial requirements related to income and resources, as well as demonstrate a qualifying disability. Unlike SSDI, there’s no need for a work history.

The financial limits for SSI are relatively strict. For 2025, the federal income limit for an individual is $2019 per month, and the asset limit is $2,000. This means that if you have more than $2,000 in assets (or $3,000 for a couple), you likely won’t qualify for SSI. Additionally, if your monthly income exceeds the limit, you may not be eligible.

But even if you have limited financial resources, it’s important to remember that meeting the disability criteria for SSI can still be a challenge. The Keener Law Firm has years of experience preparing and filing SSI claims, ensuring that all medical documentation and eligibility requirements are properly addressed.

Can a Surviving Spouse Get SSDI If Their Spouse Worked?

There’s an exception to the “no work history” rule that applies to surviving spouses. If your spouse was eligible for SSDI benefits, you might qualify for benefits even if you never worked yourself. This applies to surviving spouses who are caring for minor children who also qualify for benefits.

If your spouse paid into the Social Security system and became eligible for SSDI, you may be able to receive benefits based on their record. The eligibility rules for surviving spouses can be complex, but they generally allow for benefits to be paid to a spouse (and children) based on the deceased person’s work history.

The Keener Law Firm has assisted many surviving spouses in filing for SSDI benefits based on a deceased spouse’s earnings. Our team can help ensure that all the necessary steps are taken to secure benefits for you and your family, particularly if you’re caring for children who may also be entitled to benefits.

Why Should You Consider Hiring a Disability Lawyer?

While it’s not necessary to hire a lawyer to apply for SSDI or SSI, doing so greatly improves your chances of success. The process can be complex, with numerous forms, medical records, and legal requirements to meet. At The Keener Law Firm, our team works with you from start to finish, ensuring that all the documentation is in order, and all deadlines are met.

People who file on their own often make avoidable mistakes—whether it’s missing important deadlines, failing to submit required medical records, or misunderstanding the rules for work credits and income limits. These mistakes can delay the approval of your claim or even result in a denial.

With The Keener Law Firm, you gain the benefit of our in-depth knowledge and experience handling SSDI and SSI claims. We work tirelessly to advocate for you, maximizing your chances of a favorable decision. Whether you’ve worked and paid into Social Security or not, our team is here to help you negotiate the complex system and secure the benefits you deserve.

Get Experienced Help with Your Social Security Disability Questions

Regardless of your work history, the process of applying for disability benefits can be daunting. That’s why having the right legal representation can make a world of difference. At The Keener Law Firm, we have the experience and dedication necessary to help you navigate the system and get the benefits you’re entitled to. Whether you’re applying for SSDI or SSI, don’t hesitate to reach out and see how we can help.