If you've never worked or haven't worked enough to earn Social Security credits, you might assume disability benefits are out of reach. But there are programs designed specifically for people in your situation—you just need to know where to look.
In this article, we'll cover:
- Why work history matters for SSDI but not SSI
- How to qualify for SSI without any work history
- Disabled Adult Child benefits on a parent's record
- State disability programs and other assistance
- How to apply when you haven't worked
SSDI Requires Work History—SSI Does Not
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is funded through payroll taxes, so eligibility requires you to have worked and paid into the system. Generally, you need about 10 years of work (40 credits), with some of that work being recent. If you've never worked, you won't qualify for SSDI on your own record.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is entirely different. SSI is a needs-based program funded by general tax revenues, not payroll taxes. Work history is completely irrelevant—what matters is your disability status, income level, and resources.
Qualifying for SSI Without Work History
To qualify for SSI, you must meet three main requirements: you have a qualifying disability expected to last at least 12 months, your income is below SSI limits, and your countable resources are below $2,000 ($3,000 for couples).
The disability evaluation is the same whether you've worked or not. Social Security will assess whether your condition prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity. Medical documentation, treatment records, and functional assessments all factor into the decision.
In 2025, the maximum federal SSI payment is $967 per month for individuals. Some states add supplemental payments on top of this amount.
Disabled Adult Child (DAC) Benefits
If your disability began before age 22 and one of your parents receives Social Security retirement or disability benefits (or is deceased and would have qualified), you may be eligible for Disabled Adult Child benefits.
DAC benefits are paid from your parent's Social Security record, not your own work history. The benefit amount is typically 50% of your parent's benefit if they're living, or 75% if they're deceased. This can be significantly more than SSI, and DAC recipients also qualify for Medicare after 24 months.
Many people don't realize they qualify for DAC benefits, especially if their parent only recently retired or started receiving Social Security. If you've been on SSI and your parent's circumstances have changed, it's worth checking whether you now qualify.
State Programs and Other Assistance
Beyond federal programs, many states offer their own disability assistance. These programs vary widely in eligibility requirements and benefit amounts. Contact your state's department of social services to learn what's available.
If you're waiting for disability approval, some states offer interim assistance programs that provide support while your application is pending. General assistance programs may also be available depending on your location.
Applying for Benefits
When applying for SSI, you don't need to provide work history documentation since it's not relevant to eligibility. Focus instead on gathering comprehensive medical evidence of your disability, information about your income and resources, and documentation of your living situation.
The application process is the same whether you've worked or not. You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office. Consider working with a disability attorney or advocate if your case is complex or if you've been denied.
Everyone deserves financial stability. Purple offers checking accounts built for SSI recipients, with features that help you manage limited resources.