Key Disability Eligibility Requirements in Utah

SSDI Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in Utah, you must meet the following:

• Work credits: Generally, you need 40 work credits, with 20 credits earned in the last 10 years. Younger individuals may qualify with fewer credits depending on their age at the time of disability.
• Disability definition: Your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from working for at least 12 months or result in death.
• Medical evidence: You must provide detailed medical records showing how your condition limits your ability to work.

SSI Eligibility Criteria

For Supplemental Security Income (SSI) in Utah, the eligibility requirements focus more on financial need:

• Income limits: You must have limited income and resources.
• Residency: You must be a U.S. citizen or national and a Utah resident.
• Disability or age: You must be disabled, blind, or 65 or older.
• Medical evidence: Like SSDI, you must demonstrate through medical records that your condition prevents you from working for at least 12 months.

Meeting the SSA’s Five-Step Evaluation Process

The SSA’s five-step process is used to determine disability eligibility:

• Step 1: Are you working and earning above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) level?
• Step 2: Is your condition severe enough to limit basic work activities?
• Step 3: Does your condition meet or equal one of the SSA’s Listings of Impairments?
• Step 4: Can you perform your previous job?
• Step 5: Can you perform any other work given your age, education, and skills?

Utah Residency Requirement

For both SSDI and SSI, applicants must reside in the U.S. and file through their local SSA office in Utah. Keep in mind that some benefits may be based on Utah-specific regulations and considerations.