How long do I have to work to qualify for SSDI in New Mexico?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 12/05/2025
How long do I have to work to qualify for SSDI in New Mexico? To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in New Mexico, you must have worked long enough and paid into Social Security through payroll taxes. Typically, this means earning a certain number of work credits based on your age at the time you became disabled. Generally, most individuals need about 20 work credits in the last 10 years, but younger workers may need fewer credits. The duration you need to have worked depends on your age and work history, but the SSA has clear guidelines to determine qualification periods.
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Understanding Work Credits
Work credits are earned based on your annual earnings subject to Social Security tax:
- In 2024, you earn one credit for every $1,640 of wages paid, up to four credits per year.
- Total credits needed to qualify vary by age.
Age-Based Credit Requirements
Your age at the time disability starts affects credits needed:
- If under 24 years old, you generally need credits earned in recent years.
- Older workers usually require at least 20 credits from the last 10 years.
Work Duration Expectation
Typically, to qualify, you must have worked for about 5 to 10 years depending on age:
- Longer work history helps ensure enough credits.
- Those newly entering the workforce might have a shorter duration requirement.
Exceptions and Special Cases
- Some younger workers and students qualify with fewer credits.
- Qualified individuals may still meet rules under compassionate allowances for specific conditions.
Importance of Paying Social Security Taxes
- Only time worked where Social Security taxes were withheld counts towards SSDI eligibility.
- Self-employed individuals earn credits by reporting earned income.
Verification by Social Security Administration
- The SSA reviews your work history records and earnings to confirm you have enough credits.
- Understanding your specific credit status is key to knowing if you qualify.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we help New Mexico residents understand exactly how long you need to work to qualify for SSDI by:
- Reviewing your work history and earnings records to determine your SSDI eligibility.
- Explaining the work credit requirements based on your age and employment background.
- Guiding you through the application process to ensure you meet SSA criteria.
- Providing expert advice on how to build credits if you don’t currently qualify.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you’re unsure how long you need to work to qualify for SSDI in New Mexico, contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. Our knowledgeable team will help you evaluate your work history and provide clear guidance on meeting work credit requirements to secure the benefits you deserve.
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