What are the SSDI eligibility requirements in Louisiana?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 05/02/2025
If you're living in Louisiana and unable to work due to a disability, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSDI is a federal program, but understanding how the eligibility requirements apply to your situation in Louisiana is essential for building a successful claim.

Here’s a breakdown of the key SSDI eligibility rules and how to meet them.
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Basic SSDI Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for SSDI in Louisiana—or anywhere in the U.S.—you must meet both work-related and medical criteria established by the Social Security Administration (SSA).
You Must Have a Qualifying Work History
- You need to have earned enough work credits by paying into Social Security through payroll taxes (FICA).
- Most people need 40 credits, 20 of which must have been earned in the last 10 years.
- Younger applicants may qualify with fewer credits.
You Must Have a Severe Disability
- Your medical condition must prevent you from engaging in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)—in 2025, this means earning more than $1,550 per month ($2,590 if blind).
- The disability must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
Medical Criteria for SSDI in Louisiana
The SSA maintains a Listing of Impairments, also known as the "Blue Book," which outlines conditions that may automatically qualify for benefits if specific criteria are met. These include:
- Musculoskeletal disorders
- Neurological conditions (e.g., epilepsy, multiple sclerosis)
- Mental health disorders (e.g., depression, PTSD, schizophrenia)
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Respiratory disorders (e.g., COPD, asthma)
- Cancer and immune system disorders
Even if your condition isn’t listed, you may still qualify if it limits your ability to perform basic work-related activities.
SSA’s Five-Step Evaluation Process
SSA uses a standardized five-step process to determine SSDI eligibility:
- Are you currently working above SGA limits?
- Is your condition severe?
- Does your condition meet or equal a listed impairment?
- Can you perform any of your past work?
- Can you perform any other work, considering your age, education, and skills?
You must pass each step to be approved.
Additional SSDI Factors in Louisiana
- State Disability Determination Services (DDS) in Louisiana reviews the medical portion of your claim.
- Your local SSA field office handles the non-medical eligibility review (e.g., work history).
- Louisiana-specific healthcare providers and hospitals must submit complete and timely medical records to support your claim.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
Meeting the SSDI eligibility criteria in Louisiana requires more than just filling out forms. At Hogan Smith, we help applicants:
- Determine if they meet the SSDI work and medical eligibility standards.
- Gather comprehensive medical documentation that clearly supports their disability.
- Fill out the application accurately and completely.
- Handle denials and guide you through the appeals process if necessary.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you're unsure whether you meet the SSDI eligibility requirements in Louisiana—or need help filing your claim—reach out to Hogan Smith for a free consultation. We’ll assess your situation, explain your options, and help you build the strongest case possible. Let us help you get the disability benefits you deserve.
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