When you are unable to work, you might start looking into benefits that might help you support yourself and your family. Government benefits like SSDI can help but qualifying for SSDI benefits can seem like a confusing process. It can be, but the information in this article could clear things up a little for you.
What is SSDI?
‘SSDI’ stands for Social Security Disability Insurance. The Social Security Administration (Social Security) manages a number of programs, including SSDI and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
The SSDI program provides monthly cash benefits to eligible applicants. Beneficiaries also might take advantage of back-to-work programs that include vocational rehabilitation and job counseling.
Isn’t qualifying for SSDI benefits difficult?
It can be. In fact, Social Security denies a majority of first-time applications. Sometimes the rejection is based on missing information or incorrect forms. An experienced disability lawyer can help you avoid losing benefits because of tiny errors.
How can I qualify?
If you are thinking of applying, qualifying for SSDI benefits involves meeting the following requirements:
- First, you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security. If your paycheck contained deductions for Social Security, you might meet this requirement.
- Next, you must have a medical condition that satisfies Social Security’s definition of disability:
- “The law defines disability as the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment(s) which can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.”
- You must have earned enough work credits, particularly in a time period right before you became disabled.
You also must meet other requirements to make it through Social Security’s application process. But Social Security regulations are challenging to understand and apply. For more information, contact an experienced disability attorney.
If qualifying for SSDI benefits is so hard, why should I apply?
Even if you have a disability that prevents you from working, you still need money to survive. SSDI benefits can help support you and your family at a difficult time.
Also, Social Security does have an appeal process. If your claim is denied, you can ask for a reconsideration. There are four stages for appealing a denial of benefits, and you have to meet deadlines at each step. If you have not already hired a lawyer, this is the time. The appeals process is difficult to navigate without an experienced counselor by your side.
Call to Learn More About Qualifying for SSDI Benefits.
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