Can veterans under 30 qualify for SSDI benefits?

By Hogan Smith

Updated 12/02/2025


Can veterans under 30 qualify for SSDI benefits? Veterans under the age of 30 may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits if they meet certain criteria. Eligibility depends largely on having a qualifying disability that limits their ability to work and on meeting the work credit requirements established by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The determination also considers whether the veteran’s disability has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months or is terminal. Age alone does not disqualify veterans from receiving SSDI benefits.

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Eligibility Based on Disability

Veterans under 30 must have:

  • A medically documented disability that significantly limits their ability to work.
  • Disabilities expected to last at least 12 months or be terminal.
  • Condition severity evaluated under SSA disability criteria.
Work Credit Requirements

To qualify for SSDI, veterans under 30 need:

  • Sufficient work credits earned through Social Security taxes.
  • Fewer credits may be required due to younger age, but some work history is necessary.
  • Military service counts towards work credits in some cases.
Impact of Military Service

The SSA considers:

  • Service-connected disabilities which may facilitate eligibility.
  • Veteran’s disability ratings can support SSDI claims.
Other Important Factors

Veterans should be aware:

  • Documentation and medical evidence are essential.
  • Work capacity evaluation will assess ability to perform any job.
Common Challenges

Be mindful of issues like:

  • Lack of sufficient work credits resulting from young age.
  • Incomplete medical records or insufficient proof of disability.
  • Delays in SSA’s disability determination process.

How Hogan Smith Can Help

At Hogan Smith, we support veterans under 30 seeking SSDI benefits by:

  • Reviewing your case to confirm you meet the work credit and disability requirements specific to younger veterans.
  • Assisting in gathering comprehensive medical documentation to strengthen your SSDI claim.
  • Explaining how your veteran service and disability ratings impact your eligibility.
  • Guiding you through the SSA application and appeals process with expert advice and representation.

Contact Hogan Smith Today

If you are a veteran under 30 wondering about your SSDI eligibility, contact Hogan Smith now for a free consultation. Our skilled team is dedicated to helping young veterans navigate the SSDI system and secure the benefits they deserve, providing clear guidance on application steps and assistance with appeals if needed.


Further Reading

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Updated February 10, 2025

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Updated February 10, 2025

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Updated February 10, 2025

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