How long do I have to work to qualify for SSDI in Indiana?

By Hogan Smith

Updated 12/04/2025

How long do I have to work to qualify for SSDI in Indiana? To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in Indiana, you must have earned enough work credits based on your employment history. Generally, adults need about 20 work credits earned in the last 10 years before becoming disabled. These credits are accumulated by paying Social Security taxes on your earnings, and the exact number needed can vary depending on your age at disability onset. Understanding how long you must work helps ensure you meet the eligibility requirements to receive SSDI benefits.

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Work Credits Explained

Qualifying for SSDI depends on:

  • Work credits are earned by paying Social Security taxes.
  • The amount of credits needed varies with your age when disability begins.
  • Generally, adults need about 20 credits within the last 10 years.
Age and Disability Onset

Your age at the start of your disability affects:

  • The total number of work credits required.
  • Younger individuals usually require fewer credits.
Duration of Employment

To accumulate the necessary credits, you must have:

  • Worked and paid Social Security taxes consistently.
  • Typically averaged about 5 years of work in the past decade.
Special Rules for Recent Workers

The SSA may allow exceptions if:

  • Your work history is shorter but recent.
  • You have severe disabilities qualifying under special conditions.
Implications of Insufficient Work Credits

If you lack enough work credits:

  • You may not qualify for SSDI but could explore other benefits like Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
  • If possible, continue working to earn more credits before applying.

How Hogan Smith Can Help

At Hogan Smith, we guide Indiana residents on qualifying for SSDI by:

  • Evaluating your work history to determine if you have the necessary credits to apply.
  • Explaining how your age and employment duration affect eligibility requirements.
  • Advising on how to document your work credits to support your SSDI claim efficiently.
  • Helping you understand options if you have insufficient work credits or special circumstances.

Contact Hogan Smith Today

If you have questions about how long you must work to qualify for SSDI in Indiana, contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. Our skilled team will clarify your work credit requirements and help you navigate the SSDI application process with confidence.

Further Reading

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Updated February 10, 2025

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Updated February 10, 2025

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Updated February 10, 2025

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