Can I get SSDI if I don’t have a work history in Minnesota?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 12/04/2025
Can I get SSDI if I don’t have a work history in Minnesota? In Minnesota, receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) generally requires a work history, as eligibility depends on having earned enough work credits through paying Social Security taxes. If you don't have sufficient work credits, you usually cannot qualify for SSDI benefits. However, there may be exceptions through alternative qualifying factors or other programs like Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Understanding these requirements is crucial to determine your eligibility.
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Work History Requirement
SSDI eligibility depends on:
- Accumulated work credits through your years of paying Social Security taxes.
- Most adults need around 20 work credits earned in the last 10 years.
- Without these credits, standard SSDI approval is unlikely.
Exceptions and Alternative Benefits
If you lack sufficient work history, consider:
- Qualifying as a dependent or spouse under someone else's work record.
- Exploring Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which doesn’t require work credits.
- Checking for eligibility under special SSDI provisions if you were disabled as a child.
State Specific Considerations
In Minnesota:
- Minnesota-specific programs might assist those who don’t qualify for SSDI.
- State disability assistance could help bridge benefit gaps.
Medical Eligibility
Regardless of work history, you must:
- Prove a severe, long-term disability that limits your ability to work.
- Provide comprehensive medical records to support your claim.
Application Process
Applying requires:
- Detailed documentation of your disability and work history.
- Understanding your eligibility options if you lack sufficient credits.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we help Minnesota residents navigate the challenges of applying for SSDI without a work history by:
- Assessing your unique situation to determine if you qualify under alternative eligibility rules.
- Advising on Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and other state assistance programs.
- Gathering and organizing the necessary medical evidence to strengthen your disability claim.
- Guiding you through the application and appeal process to maximize your chance of approval.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you’re facing challenges applying for SSDI in Minnesota without a work history, contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. Our skilled team will help you explore all possible benefit options, navigate complex eligibility rules, and support you in securing the disability assistance you deserve.
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