What are the SSDI eligibility criteria in California?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 05/26/2025
If you live in California and are unable to work due to a serious medical condition, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). However, eligibility is based on specific criteria set by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Understanding these requirements is the first step toward getting the benefits you deserve.
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Basic SSDI Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for SSDI in California, you must meet both work history and medical requirements.
1. You Must Have a Qualifying Disability
The SSA defines “disability” as the inability to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that:
- Has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death
- Prevents you from doing your previous work
- Prevents you from adjusting to any other work
Your condition must be documented with solid medical evidence and may be listed in the SSA’s Blue Book (Listing of Impairments), though this is not required for approval.
2. You Must Have Earned Enough Work Credits
SSDI is a benefit based on your work history. To qualify:
- You must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security
- You need to have earned enough work credits, which are based on your annual income
- Most people need 40 credits, 20 of which must have been earned in the last 10 years (younger applicants need fewer credits)
In 2025, you earn one work credit for every $1,730 of wages or self-employment income, up to four credits per year.
3. Your Income Must Be Below the SGA Limit
The SSA sets monthly income limits to determine if you are doing “substantial gainful activity.” In 2025:
- The SGA limit is $1,550/month for most applicants
- For blind individuals, the limit is $2,590/month
If you earn more than the limit from work, you typically won’t qualify, regardless of your disability.
4. Your Disability Must Be Medically Verifiable
Your claim must include:
- Medical records from treating physicians
- Test results, imaging, or lab work
- Statements from specialists or mental health providers if applicable
- A clear explanation of how your condition limits your ability to work
State-Level Considerations in California
While SSDI is a federal program, applications are processed in California through the Disability Determination Service Division (DDSD). They evaluate your medical evidence and may request a consultative exam.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we assist California residents in determining their SSDI eligibility and guide them through every step of the application process. Our team can:
- Evaluate your work and medical history
- Help gather required medical records and documentation
- Ensure your application clearly demonstrates that you meet SSA’s disability definition
- Assist with appeals if your initial claim is denied
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you're unsure whether you meet the SSDI eligibility criteria in California, reach out to Hogan Smith for a free consultation. We’ll help you understand your rights and improve your chances of receiving the benefits you need.
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