Disability Eligibility Requirements in Mississippi

Meet the SSA’s Definition of Disability

To qualify for SSDI or SSI benefits in Mississippi, you must meet the SSA’s strict definition of disability:

• You have a medical condition that prevents you from working.
• The condition is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.

Medical Condition Must Meet SSA Standards

The SSA maintains a Listing of Impairments, also called the Blue Book, which includes conditions that automatically qualify if specific criteria are met. If your condition isn’t listed, you must show it’s severe enough to prevent any work activity.

Work Credits for SSDI Eligibility

For SSDI, you must have worked long enough and recently enough to earn sufficient work credits:

• You earn work credits by paying FICA taxes while working.
• Typically, you need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years.
• Younger workers may qualify with fewer credits.

Financial Need for SSI Eligibility

For SSI, work history is not required, but you must meet income and asset limits:

• Your monthly income must fall below the SSA’s set threshold.
• You must have limited resources (generally $2,000 or less for individuals, $3,000 or less for couples).

Inability to Perform Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)

You cannot earn more than the SGA limit, which changes annually. In 2025, the SGA amount for non-blind individuals is $1,550 per month.

Functional Limitations Must Prevent Work

Even if your condition is not listed, the SSA will evaluate your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) to determine if your limitations prevent you from doing past work or any other work.