Tool · Social Security Disability

Disability Eligibility Screener

Could You Qualify for SSDI or SSI?

Answer five questions to see how SSA's published rules apply to you and whether SSDI, SSI or both are worth applying for. It checks the rules only; SSA decides each case from your records.

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Your Situation

Has your condition lasted, or is it expected to last, at least 12 months (or to result in death)?
Are you earning more than $1,690 a month from work ($2,830 if you're blind)?
Have you worked and paid Social Security taxes in about 5 of the last 10 years?
Are your countable resources (cash, bank accounts, investments) under $2,000, or $3,000 for a married couple?
Is your monthly income from all sources low, roughly under the 2026 SSI federal payment of $994?

Answer the questions to see your result.

The Rules Behind the Questions

  • The 12-month test. Your condition has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year (12 consecutive months) or to result in death
  • Substantial gainful activity: $1,690 a month in 2026 ($2,830 for blind workers). Working above that level generally means SSA won't find you disabled.
  • SSDI work credits. Generally, you need 40 credits, 20 of which were earned in the last 10 years ending with the year your disability begins. This is called the 20/40 Rule. ... However, younger workers may be eligible with fewer credits.
  • SSI limits. SSI is for people with little income and countable resources of $2,000 or less ($3,000 for a couple) in 2026.

Next, see who qualifies in detail, how SSDI and SSI differ, and how to apply. The SSI calculator estimates a payment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does This Screener Tell Me if I'll Be Approved?

No. Only SSA decides, after reviewing your medical records and work history. The screener checks the published rules so you know which program to apply for and what SSA will look at.

What Counts as a Disability for Social Security?

SSA's definition is strict: you can't do work at the substantial gainful activity level because of your medical condition, you can't do your past work or adjust to other work, and the condition has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months or to result in death.

What Is Substantial Gainful Activity in 2026?

Earning more than $1,690 a month from work in 2026 ($2,830 if you're blind) generally counts as substantial gainful activity, and SSA won't find you disabled while you work at that level.

Sources

  1. SSA: How does someone become eligible?
  2. SSA 2026 COLA fact sheet (SGA, SSI amounts and limits)

disability.help is an independent publisher, not a government agency. To apply for Social Security disability benefits, go to ssa.gov. For VA disability compensation, go to va.gov.