Work Requirements for SSDI in Arkansas

To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes:

• Work Credits – In most cases, you need 40 work credits, 20 of which must be earned in the last 10 years before becoming disabled.
• Younger Workers – If you are under 31, fewer credits may be required.
• Recent Work Test – You must have worked a certain number of years recently, depending on your age when you became disabled.

Medical Requirements for SSDI

The Social Security Administration (SSA) requires that your medical condition:

• Prevents you from doing substantial gainful activity (SGA)
• Has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death
• Is backed by medical records and documentation
• Meets or equals a condition on the SSA’s Listing of Impairments (Blue Book) or otherwise proves you cannot work

Other Eligibility Factors in Arkansas

• Residency – You must be a legal resident of the U.S. and applying within Arkansas.
• Age – SSDI is typically available to people aged 18 to retirement age who meet work and medical rules.
• Application Process – Applications can be filed online, by phone, or at a Social Security field office in Arkansas.

Why Applications Get Denied

Many SSDI claims in Arkansas are denied on the first try due to:

• Incomplete medical documentation
• Not meeting recent work requirements
• Filing errors or missing forms
• Insufficient proof of disability severity