5 Things You Have to Prove to Qualify for SSDI
Many people apply for Social Security Disability (SSDI) without knowing what they need to get approved. Before you apply for benefits, it’s important to understand what factors the Social Security Administration looks at when deciding on whether or not to approve your application.
1. Your Condition
There are certain health conditions that are so debilitating that they automatically qualify for SSDI, such as pancreatic cancer, ALS and inflammatory breast cancer. Conditions that are less severe may still qualify for SSDI, but you may have to show more information to prove your claim.
2. Work History
SSDI is just like any traditional insurance policy. Every time you get a paycheck, you have to pay into the system with a tax, which earn you work credits over time. To qualify for SSDI benefits, you have to earn a minimum amount of work credits within a certain amount of years.
3. Your Income
Before deciding on whether to approve or deny your application, the SSA will look at how much money you make. If your income is above a certain maximum, you won’t be eligible to receive these benefits.
4. Your Age
The SSA also considers your age when looking at your application. They often deny younger applicants because they haven’t had enough time to earn the work credits they need to qualify for benefits.
5. Your Ability to Work
If you plan to apply for SSDI, you must prove that your health condition has prevented you from doing your job. You also have to show that you are unable to obtain similar work. The SSA will look at your age again to determine your eligibility. For instance, the SSA believes younger applicants will be able to train in another field of work easier than older people.
If you have made the decision to apply for SSDI benefits, it may be in your best interest to consult with a lawyer. He or she will help you navigate through the application process and ensure that you don’t make any errors. Many applicants get denied the first time because they make one or two simple mistakes in their applications. A lawyer just receives a small portion of your past-due benefits, so you can save more money if you are approved in a timely manner. To improve your chances of getting your SSDI application approved, set up a meeting with an experienced lawyer today such as the social security lawyer Memphis TN locals trust.
Thanks to authors at Darrel Castle & Associates PLLC for insight into SSDI Law.