The rules for disability are easier when you are in your 50's   To some extent, the answer to this question is yes. In the U.S., the disability system is currently set up so that older individuals get some consideration for their age. For example, the medical-vocational framework of rules (known as the grid) makes it easier for individuals who are fifty and over to get approved versus individuals who are younger than fifty. The system also gets a little easier at age 55. The reasoning behind this is very simple and logical: it's harder to transfer one's work experience as you get older. Also--and this is a real-world fact--employers are far less likely to hire someone at these ages mainly due to the cost of health insurance premiums (health insurance is a horrible mess in this country). So, our system gives consideration for age and being older. Unfortunately, this may change, bumping the 55 age rules up to age 57. What difference would this make? It would mean that many individuals who would have qualified at age 55 would be ineligible until age 57. How would that affect them? Already, many disability applicants slide into bankruptcy because the Social Security Disability process takes so long (up to 3 years depending on your state of residence). Therefore, a change in rules of this sort would literally be a catastrophe for many disabled individuals who seek disability benefits. Related: How old do you have to be to get disability? Social Security Disability, SSI and Being Over the Age of Fifty Does Education or Age Matter for Social Security Disability or SSI? About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: The Social Security Award Notice How to file for disability in Delaware Can you get disability for OCD? Liver cancer going up Social Security ticket to work and back pay Fibromyalgia and a shrinking brain Can you get disability for Chronic fatigue and Fibromyalgia? Is Chronic Fatigue considered a disability by Social Security? Can You Get Disability Benefits If You Were Self-Employed? Developmental Delay and Filing for Disability Spinal Stenosis and Filing for Disability Can you be approved for disability without a hearing? Filing for disability with carpal tunnel syndrome Filing for disability with Post polio syndrome Tips for Getting Disability Approved