Direct answer
How many work credits do I need for SSDI?
Most workers need 40 work credits to qualify for SSDI, with 20 of those credits earned in the 10 years before their disability began, though younger workers can qualify with fewer.
You can earn up to 4 Social Security work credits per year. In 2026 each credit is earned by earning a set dollar amount of FICA-taxed wages (SSA sets this figure annually). Younger workers have reduced requirements — for example, workers disabled before age 24 may qualify with only 6 credits earned in the prior 3 years.
Sourced from ssa.gov — see citations below.
What is the general rule?
Most adults need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years.
What about younger workers?
Under age 24: 6 credits in the prior 3 years. Ages 24-31: credits for half the time between age 21 and when disability began.
How do I earn a credit?
You earn up to 4 credits per year based on FICA-taxed earnings; SSA sets the dollar figure annually.
Topics
Sources
Every figure and rule on this page is drawn from official SSA publications. Verify at the links below.
- SSA — How You Earn Credits (ssa.gov)