Basic SSDI Eligibility Requirements in Louisiana

To qualify for SSDI, you must meet both work-related and medical criteria set by the Social Security Administration (SSA).

1. You Must Have a Qualifying Disability

Your condition must:

• Prevent you from working for at least 12 months (or be expected to result in death)
• Limit your ability to perform basic job tasks, such as sitting, standing, lifting, remembering, or focusing
• Be included in or equivalent to a condition listed in the SSA’s Listing of Impairments

Common qualifying conditions include:

• Severe back injuries or spinal disorders
• Cancer
• Heart disease
• Mental health disorders (e.g., depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD)
• Autoimmune diseases
• Neurological disorders (e.g., epilepsy, MS, Parkinson’s)

2. You Must Have Enough Work Credits

SSDI is an insurance program based on your work history. You generally need:

• 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began
• Younger individuals may qualify with fewer credits depending on their age

You earn up to 4 credits per year based on your income from work.

3. Your Current Work and Income Must Be Below the SGA Limit

SSA uses a measure called Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). If you're working and earning more than the monthly SGA threshold, you likely won’t qualify. As of 2025, this amount is approximately:

• $1,550/month for most applicants
• $2,590/month for blind individuals

4. You Must Provide Medical Evidence

Your claim must include detailed medical documentation from licensed professionals showing:

• A confirmed diagnosis
• Treatments attempted and their outcomes
• Functional limitations that prevent you from working
• Ongoing care and compliance with medical advice