Can you get disability if you never worked? When many people ask this question, they’re referring to Social Security disability benefits under Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). These benefits are not available to people who have never worked, because the benefits are based on the amount the worker has paid in over their working years. To qualify for benefits, you must have a disability that prevents you from working and a certain number of work credits.
So, can you get SSDI if you never worked? No. However, there is an alternative.
Can I Get SSDI If I’ve Never Worked? You Might Qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Even though the answer to “Can you get Social Security disability if you never worked?” is “No,” you may still qualify for Supplemental Security Income. SSI is a federal program administered by the Social Security Administration that helps people with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or 65 years old or older.
You can even qualify for SSI if you have never worked because work history is not part of the qualification process. SSI is based on need, not your work record.
Eligibility for a Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Claim
The SSA considers your income, assets, and medical criteria when evaluating you for SSI benefits.
- Medical – If you are between 18 and 65, you must have a physical or mental impairment that prevents you from doing any full-time job or is expected to last 12 months or end in death. If you’re under 18, the criteria are much the same, except that instead of preventing you from working full-time, your disability must result in marked and severe functional limitations.
- Financial assets – To qualify for SSI, your assets must stay below a certain amount. In a recent year, the countable resource limit was $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. However, the home you live in, one of your vehicles, household goods, your personal effects, burial spaces, tools you use for trade or business, and some other property do not count toward the resource limit.
- Citizenship and residency – You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified alien to be eligible for SSI benefits.
What Do I Need to Prove My SSI Claim?
You’ll need several types of information to prove you are eligible for SSI benefits, including:
- A Social Security card or number
- Proof of age, like a birth certificate
- Citizenship or noncitizen status record, like a passport, certificate of citizenship, or naturalization
- Proof of income
- Proof of resources, like bank statements for all your accounts, CDs, stocks, and bonds
- Proof of living arrangements, like a lease or rent receipt, deed, or property tax bill, and details for all household members
You’ll require more information than this, and some of this information will need to be provided in great detail. A skilled Oklahoma disability attorney can help you gather this data for you and assist with filing your claim.
Contact the SSI Attorneys at Ryan Bisher Ryan & Simons for Help
Can you get disability without working? You may be eligible for SSI benefits. Call the experienced Oklahoma disability lawyers at Ryan Bisher Ryan & Simons today for help. When you call our office, you’ll get a free consultation with a lawyer who will listen to your story and explain your options. Contact us today
