thinker gave great information. I do know that you have to have had a work history within the last 15 years or so. Do you ever get that statement from social security that tells how many credits you have? There are a certain number of credits you must have in order to qualify for it. But like thinker said, you can qualify for ssi if you have little or no income and don't meet the work history requirements. Be prepared. Its very hard. I've been going through this since Nov 09 and in the appeals process now where I have to wait for 2 years to go before a judge. The state I live in is notorious for denying disability claims though, so I have heard its easier in other states.