Illinois Health Insurance Practice Exam

What is the qualification criteria for Social Security Disability Benefits?

1. Must be expected to either last 12 months

2. Contributed to Social Security at least 20 quarters in the 40 prior to the disability

3. Must be employed at the time of disability

4. Must have a family member already receiving benefits

The correct answer is: Contributed to Social Security at least 20 quarters in the 40 prior to the disability

The qualification criteria for Social Security Disability Benefits includes specific requirements regarding work history and contributions to the Social Security system. One key criterion is that an individual must have contributed to Social Security for a sufficient amount of time, which typically means having worked for at least 20 quarters within the 40 quarters leading up to the onset of the disability. This demonstrates that the individual has a work history that supports their eligibility for benefits, as the Social Security program is designed to assist those who have paid into the system through their employment. While the other options touch on aspects of disability requirements, they don't directly align with the critical criteria needed for eligibility. For example, while a condition must be expected to last at least 12 months, this alone does not determine eligibility if contributions to Social Security are lacking. Employment status at the time of disability and having a family member receiving benefits do not meet the primary condition of having sufficient work credits. Thus, the correct answer focuses on the foundational aspect of contributions to the system.