Qualifying for Social Security Disability
In order to be eligible for Social Security Disability, individuals must fit several qualification criteria put forth by the SSA.
First, any potential claimant must be able to prove to the SSA that he or she is “permanently disabled,” or suffering from a condition that has lasted, or is expected to last, more than 12 calendar months. Because of this time guideline, it is important that claimants keep their medical records and other paperwork organized and up to date to prevent any confusion or question about the extent of a disability.
In addition, the SSA will attempt to make a judgment as to whether or not a claimant’s disabling condition prevents the individual from achieving any type of “substantial gainful activity.” The condition must not only prevent the claimant from performing the duties of his or her previous employment, but also make it impossible to find a new line of work due to age, education, or impairment.
Back to topSSDI
There are two federal programs which provide assistance to disabled individuals, one of which is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is funded by the Social Security tax fund, so individuals who qualify as disabled under the above criteria must also have sufficient work credits in order to qualify for payments. Basically, an individual must have paid Social Security taxes on his or her wages long enough to qualify for benefits. Generally, this means that claimants must have a fairly consistent work history, and have worked a minimum of five of the ten years previous to the onset of disability. The work credit requirement can be somewhat less for younger applicants, as parents’ work credits can be applied to applicants under the age of 22.
Back to topSSI
In the case of need-based Supplemental Security Income (SSI), there are no work requirements because the program is financed through general tax revenues and not by the Social Security tax. In order to qualify for SSI, individuals must be over 65 years old, by legally blind, or be disabled, and have total family assets amounting to less than $3000. Assets, as determined by the SSA, include income (wages, pensions, other benefits programs, etc.) and resources (stock holdings, real estate, cash savings, etc.). Individuals who meet these requirements may be eligible for SSI payments regardless of previous work history.
Back to topReasons for Denial
Due mostly to the ever increasing volume of Social Security disability claims, denial rates for applications at the initial stage are currently upwards of 60%. In the reconsideration stage, or first level of appeal, that number jumps to more than 80%.
The most common reasons for denial are the inability of a claimant to prove the severity of a disability due to insufficient medical records or other documentation, or insufficient work history to meet the work credit requirements of the SSA. In addition, many claimants are unfamiliar with the Social Security appeals process, and are unaware of the proper procedures to pursue their claim in the case of a denial.
In order to avoid such problems, it is extremely advisable that claimants continuously seek treatment from medical professionals and keep all records organized and complete. In addition, the experience of a Social Security attorney or advocate can be invaluable in the fairly common case of a denial at the initial stage.
Back to topDisability vs. Retirement
SSDI, SSI, and Social Security Retirement are three benefits programs managed by the SSA. Many people current receiving SSDI or SSI are unsure of what will happen to their disability payments once they reach retirement age.
In the case of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), a disability program funded by the Social Security tax, some or all of your monthly payment may be converted to a retirement benefit upon reaching retirement age, but the total amount of benefits should remain the same. Be sure to notify the SSA immediately if your payment goes up, as you will be responsible for the repayment of any excess money awarded to you in error.
In the case of Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you may still be able to keep some or all of your monthly payment, depending on the amount of your retirement benefit. If your retirement benefit increases your monthly income, some or all of your need-based SSI payment may be abated.
Back to topIf You Qualify…
If you feel that you qualify for SSDI or SSI based on the above criteria for eligibility, please contact us or fill out the above free, no obligation disability case evaluation today.
Last Updated: 3/1/2024
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