What is the Social Security Disability 5-Year Rule?

The Social Security 5-year rule stipulates that generally a person must have worked and paid into Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for at least 5 out of the last 10 years preceding the onset of their disability to be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits. The rule helps determine if an applicant has a recent work history that qualifies them to receive SSDI benefits. 

To qualify for SSDI, you must meet at least the following requirements:

• You must have earned enough work credits over an extended period (usually months). 
• Your condition must meet SSA’s definition of disability. 

Work Credits and Their Role in the 5-Year Rule

Work credits, also called quarters of coverage, are similar to tokens that are earned through your work history and payment into Social Security taxes. Each year, you can earn up to 4 credits based on the earnings threshold the Social Security Administration (SSA) set. For example, in 2024, you can earn one credit for every $1,730 you earn in wages of self-employment income. 

One requirement under the 5-year rule is that usually you must have worked for five out of the last ten years before you can qualify for SSDI benefits. 

Timeframe for Earning Work Credits

To qualify for SSDI benefits , you must have earned a certain number of credits based on age: 

• Under 24 years old: 6 credits earned during the 3 years before disability started.
• 24 to 31: enough credits to equal half the time between 21 and the age of the onset of the disability. 
• 31 or older: between 20-40 credits based on specific age brackets.

These time frames act as a “work test” ensuring applicants have enough work history to qualify for benefits under the SSDI program. 

Implications of the 5-Year Rule for SSD Eligibility

The 5-year rule is a fundamental eligibility criterion for qualifying for SSDI, so it is essential that applicants have a clear understanding of it. Knowing if you meet the requirements under this rule can save you time and help you avoid disappointment. Understanding the 5-year rule allows you to make informed decisions regarding your disability claim. 

Each case has unique facts, and eligibility can depend on various factors. 

Consequences of Not Meeting the 5-Year Rule

Not meeting the 5-year rule can result in a denial of your disability claim. The 5-year rule frequently can be the make-or-break factor in your application.If you do not qualify for SSDI because of the 5-year rule, you may still be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which has different eligibility requirements. 

Need Legal Help? Contact A Lawyer Today

Applying for SSDI benefits is a complex and arduous undertaking. Having an experienced lawyer on your side can make the whole ordeal easier and increase your chances of receiving benefits. You should not have to go through this process alone and unguided. 

At Chermol & Fishman, LLC, our Philadelphia disability lawyers have extensive experience handling SSD and SSI claims at the administrative level and appeals in federal courts. For a FREE consultation, call 1-888-774-7243 or complete the brief contact form below.