How is disability insured status determined?

Disability insured status is primarily determined by an individual's previous employment history and the amount of taxes paid into the Social Security system. To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), a person must have worked a certain number of years in jobs where they paid Social Security taxes. This is assessed through the work credits system, which takes into account both the duration and recency of work, as well as how much income was earned.

The focus on employment and tax contributions underscores the program's foundation as an insurance model; individuals gain access to benefits based on their work history and contributions, which is not influenced solely by medical conditions or personal circumstances. Therefore, only individuals who have made the necessary contributions through their work can be eligible for these benefits.