Based on my age, is there any benefit in applying for disability?   "What a great website to explain disability applications. I have a question that is not covered in your information as far as I can tell. I will be 63 this month. I took an early retirement at age 62. I retired under the windfall elimination provision so I receive a very small check. I have developed several medical conditions and feel I would more than likely qualify, at some point, for a disability. Based on my age and the windfall elimination provision, is there any benefit to apply for disability? Thanks." I am not sure, but I doubt it. Most civil service employees have enough credits to be insured for retirement because the threshold of forty quarters over a lifetime is easily met. However, to be insured for disability you would have had to have five years of Social Security wages in the last ten years prior to becoming disabled. If you did not develop the medical problems until after the age of 62, again it is going to be difficult unless you have worked five out of the last ten years. Lastly, a disability benefit may be a small amount, larger than your retirement but not much. Any retirement check you have been paid will reduce your disability amount. The WEP provision for civil service significantly reduced both retirement and disability benefits. 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: Avoiding Mistakes to get your Disability Claim Approved Determining Social Security Disability and SSI eligibility What Forms Do You Use to File For Social Security Disability? How a Social Security Disability or SSI award is made Disability tip: A "proper" statement from your doctor can have a dramatic effect Disability tip: Be ready for your disability application before the process even starts Disability tip: Getting your medical records yourself could jumpstart your case Disability tip: Never minimize your pain or other symptoms because this can be used against you Disability tip: Strengthen your case by providing the details of your work history Disability requirements and how to file in South Carolina Medical conditions for which you can file and apply for disability