What Is Social Security Disability Insurance?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a program that pays monthly benefits to you if you have become disabled before retirement age. If you believe you are eligible to receive SSDI, you must complete an uncompromising application with the Social Security Administration (SSA).

But what happens if SSA denies your application for SSDI? Are you confused because you meet all the requirements?

If so, find an attorney who knows how to work with the federal government. An attorney can help you appeal the decision and get the benefits you need.

Who Is Eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance?

Understanding the eligibility criteria is essential before applying for SSDI benefits. Ensuring you qualify may help you decide which path to take.

Work Credits

First, you must have worked a specific number of years in a job where you paid taxes toward Social Security (FICA taxes). More specifically, you need to earn work credits to be eligible. You can receive up to four work credits per year, and the number of work credits you need for eligibility depends on the age you were when you became disabled.

Qualifying Medical Condition

The second requirement is you must have a long-term, severe medical condition the SSA classifies as a total disability.

Severe means that the condition interferes with or prevents you from being able to perform primary job duties. Long-term means that your disability has lasted or should last at least one year.

Total disability means you cannot perform a substantial gainful activity for at least one year. The list of qualifying medical conditions for Social Security disability includes:

• Neurological disorders
• Mental disorders
• Skin disorders
• Cancer
• Varying syndromes
• Kidney disease
• Hematological disorders
• Immune system disorders
• Digestive tract disorders
• Respiratory illnesses
• Musculoskeletal problems
• Senses and speech issues
• Cardiovascular problems

However, even if you have a qualifying medical condition, there are other considerations. You still might not be eligible if you have employment and make above a certain amount. The SSA refers to this as the work credit requirement.

For instance, the Social Security Administration defines $1,550 per month or a blind applicant, making $2,590 monthly as gainful activity. Making more than this amount disqualifies you from receiving SSDI.

SSI vs. SSDI

If you are not eligible for SSDI, you might still be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

SSI is a federal program that helps people with disabilities who have very little or no income but do not meet the requirements for SSDI. Monthly payments go toward basic needs such as clothing, food, and shelter.

How To Apply for Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits

SSDI benefit applications are relatively straightforward, but it is important to prepare. Otherwise, it can become unnecessarily complicated. Here is what you need to know about your SSDI benefits application.

Step 1: Gather Appropriate Information

You should collect all the details you need before you fill out the SSDI benefits application. Here is a list of some of the most common elements you should have on hand when you are sitting down to apply for SSDI benefits:

• A list of your diagnosed medical conditions
• Information about health care professionals you have seen, including their names, addresses, and the dates you saw them
• List of medication or treatments and the medical professional who prescribed them
• Information about work history, when you stopped working due to the disability, and the type of work you were doing before your disability
• Information about your vocational training and education level
• Employment information for the current year, as well as the two previous years, including your start and end dates and how much money you made
• If applicable, include information about military service and the dates you served
• Information about current and/or former spouses, including their names, social security numbers, and marriage/divorce dates
• Names and birthdates of children who are under the age of 18 or who became disabled before the age of 22

Step 2: Apply Online

There are three ways to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits:

• Visit ssa.gov/applyfordisability and apply online
• Call the Social Security office at 800-772-1213 and schedule an appointment to apply
• Go to your local Social Security office to apply in person without an appointment

You should only apply for disability insurance when you have sufficient medical records to show eligibility. If you have not seen a doctor in a while, see one a few times and get their recommendation for SSDI before applying.

Step 3. If Denied, Contact an Attorney

Your next step after a denial is to contact an attorney and appeal the decision. Your attorney will gather your information and make a strong case for why you need the benefits.

Work With an Experienced Local Lawyer

Have received a denial for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits?

With the help of an experienced attorney, you can appeal the decision and hopefully win your case.

Submit a request online or call us today at (866) 345-6784 to speak with an experienced lawyer in your area!