Basic SSDI Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for SSDI, you must meet three main requirements:

1. Work Credits:

You must have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain number of years. The exact number depends on your age but generally, you need about 40 credits, with at least 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability started.

2. Medical Condition:

You must have a medical condition that meets the SSA’s definition of disability. This means your condition must:

• Be severe enough to prevent you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA).
• Have lasted or be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
• Be listed in the SSA’s Listing of Impairments or be equally severe.

3. Unable to Work:

You must be unable to perform your previous work or any other work considering your age, education, and experience.

Additional Requirements Specific to Colorado

While SSDI eligibility is determined federally, Colorado residents should be aware of:

• State resources that can assist you during the application process.
• Local medical providers who are familiar with SSA documentation.
• Potential waiting times for SSDI approval, which can vary.

How to Strengthen Your SSDI Application in Colorado

• Maintain thorough medical records from Colorado healthcare providers.
• Provide detailed evidence about how your disability affects your ability to work.
• Understand the SSA’s five-step evaluation process to prepare accordingly.