How long do I have to work to qualify for SSDI in Maryland?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 12/04/2025
How long do I have to work to qualify for SSDI in Maryland? To be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits in Maryland, you must have worked and paid into the Social Security system for a certain period. Generally, you need to have earned enough work credits, which are based on your total yearly wages or self-employment income. The specific number of credits required depends on your age at the time your disability begins, but typically, most adults need about 20 credits over the last 10 years, with at least 6 credits earned in the recent 3-year period. These work credits ensure that you have a sufficient employment history to qualify for SSDI benefits in Maryland.
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Work Credits and Eligibility
The Social Security Administration uses work credits as a measure:
- Work credits are earned based on your total earnings each year, up to a maximum of 4 credits annually.
- The number of required credits depends on your age at disability onset.
- Generally, you must have earned at least 20 credits, with some credits earned recently.
Age-Based Credit Requirements
Your age influences how many credits you must have accrued:
- If under 24 years old, fewer credits may be needed, sometimes just 6 in the past 3 years.
- For individuals between 24 and 31, the requirement increases gradually.
- Older applicants typically need about 20 credits within the last 10 years.
Recent Work Credits
Recent work history is important:
- Must have earned some credits within the past 3 to 10 years.
- This ensures your connection to the workforce is current when applying for SSDI.
How SSDI Uses These Credits
These credits determine your eligibility:
- Verify sufficient work history to earn SSDI benefits.
- Help establish your Social Security taxes paid and benefit amount.
Exceptions and Special Cases
In some cases, exceptions apply:
- Those with disabilities starting young may qualify with fewer credits.
- Military service and certain government jobs have special rules.
Common Barriers
Watch out for these issues:
- Insufficient work credits due to short or sporadic employment.
- Work performed outside the United States may not count.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we specialize in helping Maryland residents understand how long you must work to qualify for SSDI by:
- Evaluating your work history to determine if you meet the credit requirements for SSDI benefits.
- Explaining how your age and employment record impact your eligibility for SSDI.
- Assisting in gathering necessary documentation to verify your work credits and earning history.
- Guiding you through the complex SSA rules to maximize your chance of approval.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you have questions about how long you need to work to qualify for SSDI in Maryland, contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. Our experienced team will review your employment history and help you navigate the SSDI eligibility process with confidence.
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