Social Security Disability Guide:
Disability Insured Status
A claimant is not eligible for Social Security Disability unless s/he
has what is known as "disability insured status." If the individual
does not have "disability insured status", s/he cannot receive Social
Security Disability -- even if disabled. [Such an individual
may qualify for Supplemental Security Income.]The requirements for achieving "disability insured status" are complex and cannot be fully discussed on this web page. You can get the requirements from the Social Security Administration.
The central requirement for disability insured status is that the claimant must have worked five out of the last ten years in covered employment. Employment is considered covered if it results in payments being made to the Social Security Administration. However, in some cases [such as individuals just starting to work] another rule may apply, so check with the Social Security Administration for the rules.