As indicated above, Social Security Disability is an insurance program, which requires a recipient be insured in order to collect benefits. Insured status requires two things: 1) 40 credits or quarters (10 years) worked during your lifetime; and 2) working five out of the last 10 years. Social Security has special guidelines for people under 31 years of age who have worked, but have become disabled. You should contact your local Social Security office to determine when you were last insured. If your disability began after your last insured date, then you will not qualify for disability benefits from Social Security. You may still qualify for retirement benefits after age 62, however.