How long do I have to work to qualify for SSDI in New Jersey?

By Hogan Smith

Updated 12/05/2025

How long do I have to work to qualify for SSDI in New Jersey? To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits in New Jersey, you need to have worked and paid into the Social Security system for a specific amount of time. Generally, this means earning enough work credits based on your age at the time your disability began. Most adults must have worked for about 5 out of the last 10 years before becoming disabled to be eligible for SSDI. These requirements ensure that you have a sufficient employment history to support your claim for disability benefits.

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Understanding Work Credits

SSD benefits are based on:

  • Accumulating work credits by paying Social Security taxes through employment.
  • In 2024, earning 1 credit requires earning $1,640 in wages or self-employment income.
  • You can earn up to 4 credits per year, depending on your earnings.
Age-Based Requirements

The number of credits needed varies based on:

  • Your age at disability onset, with younger workers needing fewer credits.
  • For most workers aged 31 or older, you need 20 credits, with at least 10 earned in the last 10 years.
  • Those younger than 24 may qualify with as few as .
Minimum Work Period

Generally, to qualify for SSDI in New Jersey:

  • You must have worked for about 5 of the 10 years preceding your disability.
  • This means consistent employment and Social Security contributions during that time.
Exceptions and Special Cases

In certain situations:

  • Disabled workers under age 24 might qualify with fewer credits.
  • There are also special rules for disabilities that begin in childhood.
Impact of Work Credits on Benefits

Work credits not only determine eligibility but also:

  • Influence the amount of monthly SSDI benefits you can receive.
  • Help the Social Security Administration assess your work history for benefit calculations.

How Hogan Smith Can Help

At Hogan Smith, we guide New Jersey residents through qualifying for SSDI by:

  • Reviewing your work history to determine if you have the necessary work credits to qualify.
  • Explaining the specific age-based requirements that apply to your SSDI application.
  • Helping collect and organize employment records and Social Security earnings statements.
  • Providing advice on how previous employment impacts your eligibility and benefits.

Contact Hogan Smith Today

If you have questions about how long you need to work to qualify for SSDI in New Jersey, contact Hogan Smith for a free consultation. Our experienced legal team can clarify your work credit status, help prepare your claim, and support you throughout the SSDI application process to maximize your chances of approval.

Further Reading

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Updated February 10, 2025

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Updated February 10, 2025

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Updated February 10, 2025

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