How long do I have to work to hire an attorney for SSDI?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 12/09/2025
How long do I have to work to hire an attorney for SSDI? To hire an attorney for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), there isn’t a specific minimum length of work required. Instead, you need to have earned enough work credits through paying Social Security taxes over a period of years. Generally, the Social Security Administration (SSA) requires that you have worked recently enough and long enough to qualify for benefits, but you can contact an attorney at any stage of your application or appeal. Attorneys can assist even if you do not meet the work requirements yet, helping you understand your situation and plan your claim strategy.
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Step 1: Understand Work Credit Requirements
The SSA requires you to have earned enough work credits to qualify, which depends on your age.
- Most adults need 40 work credits, with at least 20 earned in the last 10 years.
- Work credits are based on your earnings and the amount you pay into Social Security taxes.
Step 2: Consider Your Age
Your age when disability begins affects how many credits you must have.
- Younger workers generally need fewer credits to be eligible.
- Older workers usually must have earned more recent work credits within the last 10 years.
Step 3: Know When to Hire an Attorney
You can hire an attorney before applying or at any point during the claim.
- Early legal help can improve your application and increase your chances of approval.
- Attorneys assist with appeals if your claim is denied.
Step 4: No Fixed Work Time Required to Retain an Attorney
Hiring an attorney isn't tied strictly to your work history.
- Anyone can seek legal counsel to understand SSDI rules and eligibility.
- Even those with limited work credits may benefit from expert advice.
Step 5: Attorney Fees Contingent on Winning
Keep in mind how attorney fees work.
- Most SSDI attorneys work on contingency, meaning they get paid only if you win benefits.
- This allows people to hire attorneys without upfront costs regardless of their work history.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we help clients understand how long they need to have worked to qualify for SSDI and when to hire an attorney.
- We review your work history and credits to determine your eligibility for SSDI benefits.
- Explaining the importance of work credits and how they affect hiring an attorney for your claim.
- Guiding you on the best time to hire legal assistance for filing or appealing your SSDI application.
- Providing expert advice on navigating SSDI requirements based on your unique employment background.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you wonder how long you need to work to hire an attorney for SSDI, contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. Our skilled team helps you understand your work history requirements and connects you with the right legal support to pursue your SSDI benefits confidently.
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