Getting approved for Social Security Disability benefits in the United States is not easy. The Social Security Administration (SSA) checks every application very carefully. In many cases, if all requirements are not met properly, the application is denied. This can be very frustrating, especially for people under the age of 50.
For those under 50, the process is even tougher. The SSA assumes younger people can still find new types of jobs even if they cannot do their old jobs. However, this is not always true. If you can clearly show, with medical proof, that you cannot work in any job, it is still possible to get benefits before turning 50.
How Disability Can Be Approved Before Age 50
Several disability law experts say it is possible to get disability benefits before age 50. The key is providing strong, clear, and detailed medical evidence that proves you cannot work in any job. It is not enough just to say you are sick—you must show it through medical reports and other documents.
One popular disability lawyer, Brad Thomas, often shares advice on TikTok. He recently explained the three most common reasons the SSA approves disability benefits for people under 50. These reasons are more common than you might think and could apply to many cases if explained well.
Three Main Reasons for Approval Before Age 50
Inability to Walk, Sit, and Stand for a Full Workday
If your health condition makes it hard for you to walk, sit, or stand for at least 8 hours a day, you may qualify for disability. A typical workday usually requires a person to stay in one position or move between sitting, standing, and walking.
If you can’t do these activities, it can show the SSA that you are not able to perform full-time work. But remember, you must have a doctor’s report to prove this.
Missing Work Two or More Days a Month
Another common reason for approval is if you need to miss work two or more days every month because of your health. Frequent absences make it hard to keep a steady job.
Whether you stay at home due to feeling unwell or have to visit a doctor or hospital often, this affects your ability to work regularly. This situation is a strong reason that the SSA looks at seriously.
Being Absent 15-20% of Working Hours
If your illness causes you to leave work early, arrive late often, or take longer-than-usual medical breaks, this also counts against your ability to work. If these interruptions add up to about 15% to 20% of your working time, it can be used as proof that you can’t maintain a full-time job. Again, good medical records are needed to support this claim.
Why Good Documentation Matters
Even if you have a strong case, without the right documents, it is hard to win. Experts always recommend keeping detailed records of:
- Medical appointments
- Test results
- Hospital visits
- Doctor’s notes explaining how your condition limits you
The more organized and complete your paperwork is, the better your chances of getting approved. A clear and professional presentation of your case can make all the difference between getting a denial or approval.
Understanding How Much You Can Receive
It’s important to know that the maximum Social Security Disability benefit in 2025 is $4,018 per month. However, not everyone gets the maximum amount. Your payment depends on your previous work history, income, and how much you paid into Social Security over your lifetime. So even if two people have the same disability, their checks could be different.