Social Issues / 14.11.2024

You chose the family’s financial stability and well-being when you decided to become a stay-at-home mom. Statistics suggest that 25% of mothers left their jobs in 2023 to look after their children, compared to just 15% in 2022.  Due to their lack of work history, many stay-at-home mothers are misinformed that they’ll be automatically eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Unfortunately, stay-at-home parents can only access SSDI based on their spouse/ex-spouse’s work credits or medical history.  In this blog post, we’ll discuss your eligibility and the possibility of getting SSDI benefits.

Overview of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

SSDI is a program by the federal government that offers financial assistance to citizens who are unable to work. Ideally, you’ll only be eligible if you have a qualifying disability that prevents you from getting a job. Over 7 million Americans are currently being paid under this scheme. Unlike other Social Security benefits, SSDI is usually based on the following:
  • Applicant’s or their spouse’s work history
  • Accumulation of work credit by paying taxes
  • A qualifying disability that prevents you from getting a job
This distinction raises questions for any stay-at-home parent. For instance, you might not have recent work experience, but your spouse’s work record might determine your SSDI eligibility. Similarly, your medical disability can also be considered. Some even confuse this with Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which doesn’t require a work history and provides you with money for regular expenses.  (more…)