Can I get Social Security benefits if I am disabled but have never worked?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I am disabled, but I have never worked. Can I get Social Security disability benefits?

Answering your question.

If you are disabled but have never worked, you can’t get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) — but you might still qualify for another program called Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Let’s break it down in a simple and clear way.

Can I Get SSDI If I’ve Never Worked?

No. SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is like an insurance policy you pay into through your job. It comes out of your paycheck — it’s the part labeled FICA or Social Security tax.

If you never worked, or never paid into Social Security taxes through a job, you didn’t “pay into” that insurance — so you can’t get SSDI.

But You Might Qualify for SSI

SSI stands for Supplemental Security Income. It’s a government program for people who:

• Have a disability (physical or mental),
• Have little or no income, and
• Have few resources (like cash, savings, or property)

You don’t need a work history to get SSI. It’s based on your financial need, not your work record.

How Much Does SSI Pay?

As of 2025, the federal SSI monthly benefit is:

• $943/month for a single person
• $1,415/month for a couple (if both are eligible)

Some states add extra money, so the total could be a little higher depending on where you live.

What Do You Need to Qualify?

You must meet all of these:

• Be legally disabled
• Your condition must stop you from working full-time.
• It must last — or be expected to last — at least 12 months, or be terminal.
• Have little or no income
• Social Security counts most money you receive (like gifts, help from others, or cash jobs).
• Own very little property or savings
• You can’t have more than $2,000 in assets ($3,000 for couples), not counting:
  • Your home (if you live in it)
  • One vehicle (in most cases)
  • Clothes and basic household items

Example:

Let’s say:

• You’re 35 years old.
• You’ve never worked at a job.
• You have a severe disability that stops you from working.
• You don’t have any savings and live with family.

You can apply for SSI, and if you qualify, you’ll get monthly checks and possibly Medicaid for health care.

How to Apply

• You can apply for SSI Online at ssa.gov
• By phone at 1-800-772-1213
• In person at your local Social Security office
• You may also want to speak to a disability lawyer or advocate — they can help you apply or appeal if you’re denied. They don’t charge upfront.

Bottom Line (Simple Version):

Have you ever worked and paid Social Security taxes?
No — so you can’t get SSDI

Are you disabled and low-income?
Yes — you may qualify for SSI

Can you apply even if you’ve never worked?
Yes — apply for SSI