What are the SSDI requirements in New Hampshire?

By Hogan Smith

Updated 05/22/2025


If you're a New Hampshire resident applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), it's essential to understand the eligibility requirements before you begin your application. The Social Security Administration (SSA) follows strict rules to determine whether you qualify for monthly benefits.



Below is a clear guide to the SSDI requirements in New Hampshire, so you know what to expect and how to prepare.

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Basic SSDI Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for SSDI, you must meet two main categories of requirements: work-related and medical.


1. Work History Requirements

SSDI is an insurance program. You must have worked and paid into Social Security taxes (FICA) through your job for a specific period:


  • You need to have accumulated enough work credits (usually 40 total, with 20 earned in the last 10 years).
  • Younger applicants may qualify with fewer credits.
  • The number of credits depends on your age at the time of disability.


Tip: In 2025, one work credit is earned for every $1,730 in wages, up to 4 credits per year.


2. Medical Disability Requirements

SSA uses a strict definition of disability. To qualify, your condition must:


  • Be severe enough to prevent substantial gainful activity (SGA)
  • Last (or be expected to last) at least 12 months or result in death
  • Be supported by objective medical evidence


The SSA will also evaluate your ability to:

  • Perform previous work
  • Adjust to other types of work, considering your age, education, and skills


SSA's 5-Step Disability Evaluation Process

SSA uses a five-step process to determine disability eligibility:


Step 1: Are You Working Above the SGA Limit?

If you're earning more than $1,550/month (non-blind) or $2,590/month (blind) in 2025, you're likely not eligible.


Step 2: Is Your Condition Severe?

Your condition must significantly interfere with basic work-related activities.


Step 3: Does Your Condition Meet a Listed Impairment?

SSA maintains a Listing of Impairments. If your condition matches a listing exactly, you qualify automatically.


Step 4: Can You Do Your Past Work?

SSA examines if your condition prevents you from doing your previous jobs.


Step 5: Can You Do Any Other Work?

SSA assesses whether you can adjust to other types of work, factoring in your age, skills, and education.


Medical Evidence You’ll Need

You must provide thorough and updated medical documentation, such as:


  • Doctor’s notes and treatment records
  • Hospital and specialist reports
  • Test results and imaging
  • Medication history
  • A Medical Source Statement from your physician explaining your work limitations

How Hogan Smith Can Help

At Hogan Smith, we understand how overwhelming SSDI applications can be—especially when you're focused on your health. Our New Hampshire disability team can:


  • Evaluate if you meet SSDI requirements before you apply
  • Help gather the medical and work history needed
  • Submit a complete and accurate application
  • Represent you in appeals if your claim is denied

Contact Hogan Smith Today

Not sure if you qualify? Contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. We’ll review your eligibility and help you build a strong case that meets New Hampshire’s SSDI requirements—step by step.


Further Reading

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Updated February 10, 2025

A black and white icon of a newspaper on a white background.

Updated February 10, 2025

A black and white icon of a newspaper on a white background.

Updated February 10, 2025

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