Step 1: Understand Work Credits for SSDI

Work credits represent your contribution to Social Security and are key in qualifying for SSDI in Maine:

• Work credits are earned based on your earnings and paying Social Security taxes.
• You can earn up to 4 credits per year, depending on your income.
• The amount required changes with your age at disability onset.

Step 2: Age-Based Credit Requirements

The SSA has different thresholds for eligibility depending on when you become disabled:

• Younger workers under 24 may need as few as 6 credits in the last 3 years.
• Ages 24 to 31 require credits equal to half the years since turning 21.
• Adults over 31 generally need at least 20 credits earned in the last 10 years.

Step 3: Length of Work Required

Most people must have worked at least 5 to 10 years to get enough credits:

• Consistent employment in recent years is important.
• Intermittent work or gaps may affect your total credits.
• Meeting minimum credit requirements ensures eligibility for SSDI.

Step 4: Additional Eligibility Factors

Besides work credits, the SSA also considers:

• Severity and duration of your disability.
• Whether your condition prevents substantial gainful activity.
• Medical documentation supporting your disability claim.

Common Issues in Qualification

Be aware of these potential challenges:

• Insufficient work credits due to limited work history.
• Disability onset not properly documented or short-term conditions.
• Failing to meet SSA’s strict medical standards for disability.