Social Security Disability for First Responders: What You Need to Know

Understanding the Landscape

First responders face extraordinary physical and emotional demands every day. From responding to emergencies and traumatic events to working under high-stress conditions, their roles are unlike any other. When a serious injury or illness affects their ability to work, knowing where to turn for support is essential. For many, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) may provide a financial lifeline—if they qualify and understand how it fits within other available benefits.

Do First Responders Qualify for SSDI?

How Work History Affects Eligibility

SSDI eligibility depends on whether a first responder’s employment history includes enough covered work. Generally, workers need 40 credits, 20 of which must have been earned in the last 10 years, though younger individuals may qualify with fewer credits. Many first responders contribute to the Social Security system through payroll taxes, just like workers in other fields. These individuals may be eligible to apply for SSDI if a medical condition prevents them from working. Eligibility requires enough work credits and a condition that’s severe, long-term, and prevents full-time work.

However, some first responders in New York, especially those employed by municipal agencies like the NYPD or FDNY, may not contribute to Social Security. These individuals often participate in city or state disability pension systems instead. While they may not be eligible for SSDI through that work, they might still qualify based on prior or additional employment that involved paying into Social Security.

When SSDI Makes Sense

Who Benefits Most

For first responders who are not covered exclusively under a state or municipal pension, SSDI can be a critical layer of financial protection. This is especially relevant for:

• EMTs and paramedics employed by private or non-municipal organizations.

• Law enforcement officers or firefighters who worked other jobs where they paid into Social Security.

• Individuals suffering from conditions not easily addressed through state pensions, such as PTSD or chronic illness.

Even those receiving a city pension may find that SSDI is available as a secondary benefit. However, it's essential to understand that offset rules may reduce the SSDI amount depending on the type and amount of other benefits received, such as workers' compensation or public disability pensions.

Physical Injuries, Mental Health Conditions, and Legislative Support

Injuries sustained on the job—from back trauma to hearing loss to repetitive stress injuries—can qualify for SSDI if they prevent full-time work. Mental health conditions are also increasingly recognized. PTSD, anxiety, depression, and chronic stress are common among first responders and can form the basis for a disability claim when properly documented. Recent legislative efforts, such as NYS Senate Bill S7272, are helping strengthen recognition and access to support for these conditions.

SSDI applications for mental health issues must show not only a diagnosis, but also how symptoms interfere with daily functioning and employment. Gathering strong medical evidence, personal statements, and support from mental health professionals can make a substantial difference.

Legislative Update: NYS Senate Bill S7272

In April 2025, New York State introduced Senate Bill S7272, which seeks to amend General Municipal Law to enhance support for first responders diagnosed with PTSD. The bill proposes a presumption that PTSD, when diagnosed by a qualified psychiatrist or psychologist, is a service-related condition unless proven otherwise.

This legislation would make it easier for affected first responders to access salary replacement, medical treatment, and hospital care. It also shifts the burden of proof to the employer and updates the statutory language to be gender-neutral. If passed, this bill would apply to a broad range of emergency personnel, including police officers, firefighters, corrections officers, and paramedics.

You can review the full bill text on the New York State Senate website.

Navigating Overlapping Benefits

Timing, Documentation, and Coordination

For example, if a first responder receives workers' compensation or certain public disability pensions, the combined amount of those benefits and SSDI may be subject to a cap—typically 80% of the person's average current earnings before disability. If the total exceeds this limit, the SSA may reduce the SSDI benefit accordingly. Understanding how these programs overlap is one of the most complex—and important—parts of applying for SSDI. State disability pensions, workers' compensation, and SSDI each have their own rules—and receiving one may affect the amount or eligibility of another.

That's why careful planning is key. Knowing which benefits apply, how to time your applications, and how to document your condition properly can significantly impact the outcome. Small missteps—like missing a deadline or submitting incomplete records—can delay or reduce your benefits unnecessarily.

Contact The Law Office of Mark J. Keller

The SSDI process can be overwhelming, especially for first responders who are already dealing with the physical or emotional effects of an injury. The right support can make all the difference. The Law Office of Mark J. Keller provides clear, compassionate guidance to help first responders understand their rights, explore their options, and build a compelling case for the benefits they need.

Call 718-297-1890, email markjkelleresq@yahoo.com, or complete the contact form on the firm’s website to schedule a consultation. Whether you're evaluating your eligibility or appealing a denial, taking action now can make all the difference. You’ve served your community—now let us help protect your future.