Anyone who is unable to work for at least 12 months, meets the criteria of a Blue Book listing, and meets the non-medical requirements set forth by the Social Security Administration (SSA) is eligible to receive Social Security disability benefits. You will need to provide supporting evidence and documentation to show that you meet these criteria, and you will also need to provide hard medical evidence that backs up your claim. Monthly disability benefits can help you cover medical care and basic living expenses.
Back to topWho is Eligible to Receive Social Security Disability Benefits?
To qualify for disability benefits, the following must apply to you –
- Must have a condition that meets the criteria of a Blue Book listing
- Have hard medical evidence to support your claim
- Either have the credits to qualify for SSDI benefits or the meet the SSI financial criteria
The SSA uses a medical guide, which is called the Blue Book. The Blue Book has sections that cover different bodily systems, and each section has listings for applicable conditions. Each condition has specific medical criteria that must be met for a claim to be approved per that specific listing.
To qualify for SSDI, you must have enough work credits to be covered by the program. To qualify for SSI, you must meet the financial criteria as far as income and assets go.
If you do not meet the criteria of a listing, you can still qualify for disability benefits through a medical vocational allowance. This approach takes your medical conditions, age, work history, and other details into consideration. A residual functional capacity (RFC) form completed by your treating physician can be beneficial to the outcome of your disability claim and can help show that your claim meets the criteria for approval.
Back to topHow Do I Prove I Am Eligible to Receive Disability Benefits?
You will need to provide documentation that shows you are eligible. Among the needed documents are:
- Medical records, such as exam notes, lab results, treatment records
- Pay stubs, W-2s, 1099s, and evidence for work credits
- Detailed work history
- Statements from acquaintances or those familiar with your situation
- Your Social Security number
- Your birth certificate
- Your driver’s license or photo ID
Get Help Determining If You Are Eligible
If you are unable to work because of a medical condition, you should seek guidance from a disability advocate or an attorney to determine if you are eligible for monthly benefits. The key to a successful claim is providing hard medical evidence and by completing the claim form accurately, honestly, and in detail.
You must have hard medical evidence that confirms the severity of your condition and how you are unable to work and earn a living. A disability advocate or attorney can review the details of your disability claim and determine if you would qualify for disability benefits.
They may also help you gather the supporting evidence and documentation needed to make your claim successful. Fill out the Free Case Evaluation on this page to get connected with an independent, participating attorney who subscribes to the website.
Back to topAdditional Resources
- What is the Social Security Disability Blue Book?
- Top 5 Ways to Document Your Disability Claim
- Common Questions About Disability Benefits
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