Although you may be expecting benefits through the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program, you cannot take anything for granted. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses SSDI work credit requirements in Michigan to test your application, and it is known to deny many initial claims. Our SSDI attorneys at Thurswell Law could review your circumstances, help you understand your rights, and assist you with an initial application or an appeal.
What Is the Importance of Work Credits to Your SSDI Application?
To qualify for SSDI benefits, you must show that you have a prior work history in addition to the qualifying disability. That history means that you have made your own financial contributions to the Social Security system. Work credits measure your prior participation in the workforce and not your current ability to work.
You will not necessarily receive a penalty for not having a lengthy work history. Other factors matter, including your age and the available time you had to work before you became disabled. If you do not meet both parts of the test (a disability plus the required number of work credits in Michigan), you are not eligible for SSDI benefits. Our attorneys could advise whether your work credits qualify.
What Is the Number of Work Credits Required for SSDI Eligibility?
In Michigan, the number of work credits required for SSDI depends primarily on your age at the time you become disabled. You earn work credits based on your annual earnings, with a maximum of four credits per year. In 2025, for example, you earn one credit for every $1,640 of wages or self-employment income.
Younger workers under 24 may qualify with as few as six work credits, earned in the three years before becoming disabled. Individuals aged 24–31 typically need one and a half years of work credits within the last three years, while those aged 31–42 may require 20 work credits. For workers over 50, more credits are generally needed, often 20 or more, with the requirement increasing with age.
Generally, you must have worked at least five of the last 10 years before becoming disabled to meet SSDI eligibility requirements. Without sufficient credits, you cannot qualify for SSDI benefits, even if your medical condition meets the SSA’s standards. Our lawyers could assess and demonstrate your work credits.
Disputes Over the Required SSDI Work Credits
Disputes over SSDI work credits can arise when the SSA questions whether you have earned enough credits to qualify for benefits. These disputes often occur due to errors in reported earnings, missing tax records, or misunderstandings about what counts as creditable work. For example, income from self-employment, certain military service, or employment outside the U.S. may not automatically be credited if not properly documented.
Another common source of dispute is the timing of credits. Michigan SSDI requires that you earn a sufficient number of work credits in recent years, depending on your age at disability onset. If the SSA determines that your work history does not meet this requirement, it can deny your benefits.
Resolving disputes typically involves submitting corrected or additional earnings records, tax documents, or proof of qualifying employment. Working with our experienced attorneys could help ensure that the SSA recognizes all of your creditable work, increasing the likelihood of approval.
Speak With Our Michigan SSDI Eligibility Lawyers About Work History Requirements
If you are struggling to qualify for Social Security benefits, navigating SSDI work credit requirements in Michigan can be confusing and challenging. Our attorneys at Thurswell Law could review your work history, help gather necessary documentation, and guide you through the application or appeals process. With experienced legal support, you could maximize your chances of approval and avoid common mistakes that lead to denials.
Contact us today for a confidential consultation and get the personalized assistance you need to secure your SSDI benefits.
N/a 
