How long do I have to work to qualify for SSDI in New York?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 12/05/2025
How long do I have to work to qualify for SSDI in New York? To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in New York, you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain period. The amount of time you need to have worked depends on your age at the time your disability begins. Typically, most people need to have earned 40 work credits, with at least half of them earned in the last 10 years prior to becoming disabled. Work credits are earned based on your income, and you can earn up to four credits each year.
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Step 1: Understand Work Credits
Work credits are earned based on your earnings in covered employment:
- Four credits per year can be earned, depending on your income.
- Total credits needed depends on your age when disability begins.
Step 2: Age and Work Credit Requirements
The SSA requires different work credit totals based on your age group:
- Younger workers generally need fewer credits.
- Older claimants usually must have worked longer and earned more credits.
Step 3: Recent Work Requirement
To qualify, you usually need:
- At least 20 credits earned in the last 10 years before becoming disabled.
- The SSA looks closely at your recent work history and contributions.
Step 4: Special Rules for Younger Individuals
For those under 24:
- Less work is required if you become disabled before age 24.
- You may qualify with credits earned in the 3 years prior to disability.
Step 5: Exceptions and Disabilities Starting young
If your disability began before you started working substantially:
- You may be eligible under the childhood disability criteria.
- Special protections exist for early-onset disabilities.
How Hogan Smith Can Help You
At Hogan Smith, we assist New York residents in determining how long they need to have worked to qualify for SSDI by:
- Evaluating your work history and verifying that you have the necessary credits for SSDI eligibility.
- Explaining how your age factors into the work credit requirements.
- Gathering and organizing your employment and earnings records to strengthen your claim.
- Providing guidance on appeals or disputes regarding work credits or qualification questions.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you have questions about how long you need to work to qualify for SSDI in New York, contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. Our knowledgeable team will carefully review your work history and help you understand your eligibility, ensuring you get the benefits you deserve without delays.
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