SSDI Is Based on How Much You Earned and Paid Into Your Social Security

When applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), one of the most important factors in determining your eligibility and monthly benefit amount is your work history and how much you paid into the Social Security system.

Unlike needs-based programs such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI), SSDI is an insurance program. You earn coverage through your payroll contributions, specifically the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) taxes deducted from your paycheck.

Here's how your income and contributions come into play:

1. Work Credits Are Key
   The Social Security Administration (SSA) awards up to 4 work credits per year based on your annual income. In 2025, you earn one credit for every $1,730 in wages or self-employment income. To qualify for SSDI, you generally need 40 work credits, 20 of which must have been earned in the last 10 years.
2. Your Benefit Is Based on Your Average Earnings
   SSDI benefits are calculated using your Average Indexed Monthly Earnings (AIME), which averages your highest-earning years and adjusts for inflation. From there, your Primary Insurance Amount (PIA) is calculated, which determines how much you'll receive each month.
3. More Earnings = Higher Benefits
   If you had a high-income career and contributed regularly to Social Security, you'll likely receive more in monthly benefits than someone who worked part-time or had gaps in their employment history.
4. What If You Haven't Worked Enough?
   If you haven't earned enough credits, you may not qualify for SSDI. However, other options like SSI or dependents' benefits (through a parent or spouse) may be available.

For more details and one-on-one guidance regarding your SSDI benefits and employment plans, contact the Law Office of Irene Ruzin. Our disability attorneys can help you maximize your rights and benefits while working.