Before Applying for SSD - Eligibility

You cannot receive disability benefits based on anyone’s disability except your own. You can, however, receive survivor’s benefits under certain circumstances. It’s also worth noting that in some cases, your deceased spouse’s earnings and contributions to FICA can be considered in determining the amount of disability benefits you are entitled to if you are also disabled.

Even if your physician states that you are disabled, it is important to remember that Social Security has a very strict definition of disability. Accordingly, you cannot obtain disability benefits solely on the basis of your doctor’s report.

In order to qualify for disability benefits, Social Security usually requires you to have worked at least five of the past ten years.

The Social Security Administration awards you work credits when you are employed in a job and pay Social Security taxes. These credits are based solely on earnings and are used to assess your eligibility for disability, retirement, and survivor’s benefits.

Unfortunately, because of the vast influx of new applications and the economic uncertainty of Social Security, over 60% of disability applications are denied at the Initial Stage. Even if you suffer from a disabling condition that prevents you from working, you will most likely be denied disability benefits when you first apply. Further, 86% of those who appeal their denials and seek Reconsideration are again denied, while 37% of those who request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) are also denied.

The Social Security Administration does not provide a means for claimants to receive medical treatment, and this is a painful catch-22 for those who need to demonstrate they are getting regular checkups. Because people need medical care and treatment as part of the disability application process, this is a difficult situation for many claimants to end up having to contend with.