Work Credits and Social Security Disability

There are many requirements that must be met in order to receive Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits. Part of the requirements for receiving Social Security Benefits is that you must have paid into the system and worked recently enough. Workers pay into the system through Social Security taxes. When you work at a job and pay Social Security taxes you earn credits (sometimes called work credits). The credits are based on how much you earn. For the year 2010, you receive one credit for every $1,120 that you earn. A maximum of four credits can be earned per calendar year. The amount of credits you need is based on your age. If you are over 31 years old, you will generally have enough credits if you have worked five out of the past ten years. There are different rules for those who become disabled before age 31.

It is very important to understand that your work credits run out about five years after you stop working. Therefore, if you are unable to work due to a disability, you should go ahead and apply for benefits. If you have already applied but have been denied, contact the Whitley Law Firm for representation in your appeal.