What Is SSDI?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is an essential part of the federal government’s Social Security program. It provides financial assistance to workers in the United States who are unable to work due to a medical condition. However, qualifying for SSDI benefits requires you to meet two critical criteria:

• You must be unable to work due to a long-term or permanent medical condition.
• You must have sufficient work history and contributions to the Social Security system.

Does Your Medical Condition Qualify for SSDI?

SSDI benefits are not limited to specific medical conditions. The primary requirement is that your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from working. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will evaluate your case to determine if your condition meets this standard.

Some medical conditions, such as end-stage kidney disease or certain types of cancer, automatically qualify for benefits if diagnosed by a doctor. However, many conditions fall into a “gray area.” These conditions may or may not meet the SSA’s definition of a disabling condition, depending on their severity and impact on your ability to work.

If you have a disabling condition, you will need to provide comprehensive documentation to support your application. The SSA evaluates the following factors:

• Your condition must be terminal or expected to last at least one year.
• Your condition prevents you from returning to your previous job.
• You are unable to perform any other type of work, such as transitioning from a physically demanding job to a desk job.

Do You Have the Required Work History for SSDI?

SSDI is funded through Social Security taxes, which are typically deducted from workers’ paychecks. Your eligibility depends on having a sufficient number of “work credits,” which are earned based on your income and contributions to the Social Security system.

Here are the basic work history requirements:

• You need at least 40 total lifetime work credits to qualify for SSDI.
• At least 20 of these credits must have been earned in the past 10 years.

Even if you worked part-time or experienced periods of unemployment, your total credits are what matter. If you do not meet the work credit requirements for SSDI, you may still qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a program designed to assist individuals based on financial need.

How to Apply for SSDI Benefits

Applying for SSDI benefits involves submitting an application to the SSA, along with supporting documentation about your medical condition. This documentation may include:

• A diagnosis from your doctor.
• A statement from your doctor regarding your inability to work.
• An occupational specialist’s evaluation of your work capacity.

It is common for the SSA to deny applications on the first attempt. However, you have the right to appeal. Your denial letter will explain the reasons for the rejection, and an appeal allows you to provide additional documentation to strengthen your case.

It’s important to note that the appeals process can be lengthy, often taking months. To increase your chances of approval and avoid unnecessary delays, it’s crucial to present a strong case from the start. A Social Security Disability lawyer can help you prepare your application or appeal, ensuring the SSA has all the evidence it needs to approve your claim.

Why Choose Bert McDowell Injury Law?

At Bert McDowell Injury Law, we understand how stressful it can be to navigate the SSDI application process while dealing with a disabling medical condition. Our experienced legal team can guide you through every step, from gathering medical evidence to filing appeals, ensuring the best possible outcome for your case.

We are committed to helping residents of Connecticut secure the SSDI benefits they deserve. Let us help you take the next step toward financial stability and peace of mind.

Contact us today for a free consultation. Call 475-231-3274 to speak with a dedicated SSDI lawyer at Bert McDowell Injury Law.