Eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance

To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, a person must be unable to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA) as a result of a medically determinable physical or mental impairment. The condition must be expected to last at least one year or result in death. SGA is measured in terms of earnings. In 2022, SGA for nonblind individuals is defined as an activity resulting in monthly earnings of at least $1,350 ($2,260 for blind individuals). 

After 24 months, SSDI beneficiaries are also eligible for Medicare. This includes Part A (Hospital Insurance), Part B (Supplemental Medical Insurance), Part C (Medicare Advantage), and Part D (Prescription Drugs). The waiting period creates significant hardships for many beneficiaries. They may forgo needed medical care or may draw down their life savings to pay for care. 

The program currently excludes some people in need. Social Security does not provide temporary disability insurance. This would partially compensate for lost wages resulting from pregnancy and temporary non-occupational disabilities. Nor does it provide benefits for permanent impairments that limit but do not preclude work. A 21st-century disability policy could emphasize people’s ability to work rather than forcing people who need assistance to prove that they are permanently and totally disabled.