Do You Qualify for Social Security Disability?
How Do You Know If You Qualify for Social Security Benefits?
If you have a disability, you can apply to the Social Security Administration (SSA) for federally funded disability benefits. There are two programs, and some people qualify to receive funds from both. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is available to individuals who have an adequate number of credits in their job history to qualify for monthly payments. Applicants age 21 and younger can apply their parents’ steady work history credits on their application, to meet the criteria. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) makes it possible for blind, disabled, or elderly individuals without a steady work history to apply for benefits, but eligibility is based on certain low-income conditions. More about eligibility criteria for social security disability benefits follows.
Medical Evidence
Even if you have a disability that is on the SSA’s list of medical conditions or diseases that automatically qualify for benefits approval, there are certain parameters and requirements that may result in denial of your claim. Medical records must be provided, and they must include detailed information proving one of the following two things:
- Your illness or condition will last for at least one year or
- Your disability is terminal.
Among the considerations is also whether or not you are prevented from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). The SSA will seek to determine whether you are capable of performing the typical daily tasks performed at your previous place of employment, whatever your medical prognosis.
Qualifying Medical Conditions
The SSA maintains a list of impairments which can automatically qualify you for benefits, as long as other specified criteria are met. If your disabling condition is not included on the SSA website listing qualifying conditions for disability benefits, you can request that your medical condition be added.
When a disease automatically qualifies for benefits, it means that the SSA will handle the application in an expedited manner. The average wait time for individuals with a qualifying condition to begin receiving their approved disability benefits is approximately a month. Otherwise, since few applications are approved initially, it is common to go through an appeals process that can last months.
The following are a few of the many types of impairments in the SSA’s list:
- Cancer, such as liver, esophageal, pancreatic, and thyroid cancers;
- Cardiovascular conditions, such as coronary artery disease and heart failure;
- Musculoskeletal problems, including back injuries;
- Syndromes, including Marfan Syndrome and Sjogren’s Syndrome;
- Mental disorders, such as mental retardation and depression;
- Neurological disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy, and multiple sclerosis;
- Hematological disorders;
- Vision and hearing loss; and
- Digestive tract problems.
Application Error
What could be a simple application process, with the help of a disability advisor, can become a complex and lengthy ordeal. Individuals who are unfamiliar with the process of applying for disabilities frequently make mistakes that result in a denial of the claim. It is very important to stay within the guidelines and time frame of the SSA for appeals, once the application process has begun. Once denied, any new efforts to begin the application process afresh will also be denied.
Contact The Disability Champions
To significantly increase the chances of getting approved for the disability benefits you deserve, contact The Disability Champions. There are zero upfront costs or fees, and we are only paid if you win. Call 407-601-3681 without delay for your free no-obligation evaluation.