​Becoming unable to work because of a physical or a mental condition is a frightening experience. This is especially true if you are young when you become disabled and you have a lifetime ahead of you where you need to try to find financial support. 

The good news is, there are safety net programs in place to provide income for the disabled, including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). A Los Angeles disability benefits lawyer can help you to determine if you will be able to qualify for either of these programs if you are a young person who has become disabled. 

​Can Young Workers Get Disability Benefits?

​Young workers may be entitled to disability benefits through either SSI or SSDI, depending upon the circumstances. 

First and foremost, to be eligible for either program, the young person must be so severely disabled as to be unable to work any job for which he or she is qualified. There are specific disabilities listed in the Social Security Blue Book which usually qualify workers for benefits, or you can prove your condition is as severe as those that are listed in order to qualify. 

You also need to meet basic qualifying requirements for either SSI or SSDI, depending which program you apply to. SSI is a means-tested program that you could qualify for regardless of your work history, but only if you have few assets and a limited household income. SSDI is not means tested and you could qualify even if you have assets, but you must be unable to engage in substantial gainful activity (earn above a certain amount of money) and you must have earned a sufficient number of work credits.

The number of work credits you'll need to have earned to be eligible varies based on age, so if you are young but you have worked a little and paid Social Security taxes, you may be eligible. 

A Los Angeles disability benefits lawyer can help you to determine if you can qualify for either program and can assist with submitting an application that maximizes your chances of receiving benefits.