Non-Medical Requirements for Disability Benefits

Before assessing an applicant's medical condition, Social Security will look at whether the applicant is working and whether the applicant is earning too much income to be considered disabled. Social Security will also review work history and, for SSI (the low-income, needs-based disability benefit), the applicant's household income and assets.

The articles on this page explain the various non-medical requirements for Social Security disability benefits. Readers will learn about work credits for SSDI, income and resource limits for SSI, citizenship and residency rules, and how factors like marital status and recent work history can affect eligibility for disability payments.

Talk to a Disability Lawyer

Need a lawyer? Start here.

How it Works

  1. Briefly tell us about your case
  2. Provide your contact information
  3. Choose attorneys to contact you
Boost Your Chance of Being Approved
Get the Compensation You Deserve
Our experts have helped thousands like you get cash benefits.
How It Works
  1. Briefly tell us about your case
  2. Provide your contact information
  3. Choose attorneys to contact you