Yes, social security disability benefits have a duration requirement- but NO you should not wait to file for social security disability. While it is true that you must have a medical impairment that lasts, or is expected to last, a year, it is a big mistake to wait on filing a claim for social security disability until you have met the duration requirement. Social security can often take along time to win, so it is best to file for disability when you and your doctor think there is a strong chance that you will not be able to go back to work within a year.