Basic Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for disability benefits in Idaho, you must meet these core conditions:

• Have a qualifying medical condition: Your disability must meet the SSA’s definition — a physical or mental condition that significantly limits your ability to perform basic work activities and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
• Work history requirements for SSDI: For SSDI, you must have earned enough work credits by paying Social Security taxes through your employment. Generally, this means having worked for at least 5 out of the last 10 years.
• Financial need for SSI: SSI eligibility is based on financial need rather than work history, targeting individuals with limited income and resources.
• Unable to work: Your condition must prevent you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA), which is defined by a monthly income limit set annually by the SSA.
• Residency status: You must be a U.S. citizen or meet certain non-citizen requirements.

Medical Criteria and the SSA’s Listing of Impairments

The SSA uses a Listing of Impairments — a detailed list of disabling conditions — to evaluate your claim. If your condition matches or equals the severity of a listed impairment, you will generally qualify for benefits.

Common qualifying conditions include:

• Musculoskeletal disorders
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Respiratory disorders
• Mental disorders (such as depression or schizophrenia)
• Neurological disorders
• Cancer and other severe illnesses

Additional Factors That Affect Eligibility

• Duration: Your disability must last or be expected to last at least 12 months.
• Age and education: SSA considers your age, education level, and work experience in evaluating whether you can adjust to other work.
• Residency in Idaho: While disability benefits are federal, you must reside in Idaho or the U.S. to apply.