Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal assistance program that provides money to disabled individuals who can no longer work due to a severe medical condition. To qualify for SSDI, you must have held a job that participated in Social Security, which means you have paid Social Security taxes on your earned income. You earn work credits each year you worked; to receive SSDI payments, you must have accumulated enough work credits in your lifetime to qualify for benefits. Also, your disability must meet the criteria defined by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Learn more about SSDI, including its various requirements, by downloading our free guide.