Can You Get Disability If You Never Worked?
Securing disability benefits can be a lifeline for those who are unable to work due to a serious medical condition. But what if you’ve never worked? Can you still qualify for benefits despite a limited work history?
In this blog, we’ll clarify the requirements for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Continue reading to find out more about eligibility criteria and if you can get disability without working.
Understanding Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
SSDI is a federal program for those who have a sufficient work history and have paid into the Social Security system. To be eligible for SSDI benefits, you must have a disability that prevents you from working. You also need substantial work credits (Social Security credits). The number required depends on your age and when you became disabled.
Can You Get SSDI if You Never Worked?
SSDI is for people who have worked throughout their lives and paid into Social Security. Therefore, you cannot get SSDI benefits without a work history. However, there are other types of disability benefits that you may be eligible for if you had a working family member, such as:
- Disabled Adult Child (DAC) Benefits: If you are an adult who became disabled before age 22 and have a parent who is receiving retirement benefits, SSDI, or is deceased, you may qualify for DAC benefits based on their work record.
- Disabled Widow(er)’s Benefits (DWB): If you are a widow or widower and were married to someone who was eligible for SSDI, you may qualify for benefits based on their earnings record. You must be between 50 and 60 years old and disabled.
The examples above are both types of Survivor benefits. Non-disabled children of a deceased Social Security beneficiary can also receive benefits if they are unmarried and 17 or younger, or between the ages of 18-19 and in school full time. Additionally, parents age 62 or older who depended on the deceased for at least half of their support may receive benefits.
Understanding Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI is a needs-based benefit program that does not require work credits to qualify. It is for individuals with limited income and resources who are blind, disabled, or aged (65 and older). To qualify, you must meet specific income and asset limits set by the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Can You Get SSI if You Never Worked?
Yes, you can qualify for SSI without a work history. The SSA considers your income, assets, and living arrangements to determine your eligibility. Common situations where people may qualify for SSI without working include:
- Congenital disabilities or childhood impairments
- Severe mental or physical conditions that prevented work from a young age
- Low-income seniors aged 65 and older
How To Apply for SSI
Now that you understand the restrictions for getting Social Security Disability if you’ve never worked, it’s important to consider your options. If you’re disabled and can’t earn a living wage, you may qualify for Supplemental Security Income.
To apply for SSI benefits, you will need to gather all necessary documents, including medical records, financial statements, and proof of disability. It’s a good idea to work with an experienced disability attorney. The SSA denies most initial claims, often due to technical errors or too little medical evidence. It’s also easy for someone who isn’t familiar with the claims process to improperly report financial information.
Some common reasons for SSI denial include:
- Lack of medical evidence
- Earning too much income
- Unearned income
- Incomplete or inaccurate application
- Failure to follow prescribed medical treatment
- Short-term disability
By working with our Tennessee disability attorneys, you can file your SSI claim completely and accurately. Our law firm focuses exclusively on SSDI and SSI cases. With 100 years of combined experience and extensive legal knowledge of Social Security Disability, we know how to strengthen your claim and avoid common pitfalls.
Contact Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC
Navigating the disability benefits system can be challenging, especially if you have a limited work history. At Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC, we have years of experience helping clients secure the benefits they deserve.
Our compassionate and knowledgeable attorneys can guide you through the application process, represent you during appeals, and help you gather the necessary evidence to build a strong case.
If you’ve never worked and are struggling with a disability, you may still qualify for SSI, DAC, or DWB benefits. Drozdowski & Rabin, PLLC, will fight to make sure your rights are protected as we file your claim for support. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case!
Back to Blog
