Qualifying and Applying for Social Security Disability Income
Individuals who have suffered an injury or developed a medical condition that will (1) keep them out of work for at least one year or (2) potentially lead to death are eligible for Social Security Disability Income (SSDI). Read more to learn if you qualify for SSDI and if so, how to apply for and receive your benefits.
Do You Qualify for SSDI?
Most of us go about our personal and professional lives assuming that if we work hard and keep our noses clean, there’s nothing that can impede our success. We read about people involved in catastrophic injuries that lead to them being placed on SSDI but can’t imagine that such a thing would ever happen to us. However, studies show that one in four individuals will become disabled at or before the age of 67. In these instances, it’s imperative that you take advantage of the systems in place to keep you financially secure regardless of your physical, emotional, and employable status.
In order to qualify for SSDI, you must have been employed in a position that is covered by Social Security. You must also have a medical condition that meets the government standard for “total disability,” which includes each of the following three conditions:
1. You can no longer do the same work you did before your medical condition.
2. The Social Security Administration determines that you are unable to adjust to a new line of work due to your medical condition.
3. Your medical condition will keep you from working for at least one year or will eventually result in death.
You can follow this link to learn more about which conditions are automatically covered by SSDI. If your condition is not explicitly listed, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will review your case to determine if your ailments are equal to or exceed that of a similar qualifying condition that is on the list.
It’s important to note that individuals who have suffered “partial disability” are not eligible for SSDI. It’s also important to note that the SSA takes into account several other factors when assessing an individual’s short-term disability, including workers’ compensation, insurance, savings, and investments.
How to Apply for SSDI
If you have suffered an injury or other medical condition that has left you disabled, you should contact an experienced and reputable attorney immediately to apply for SSDI. These claims require significant and accurate documentation, as well as comprehensive medical evidence. They can take several months to be processed, and if your claim is denied, the appeal process can be taxing.
When applying for SSDI, you will need all of the following:
- Proof of age and your Social Security number
- Contact information (name, phone, address) of the medical professionals and institutions that cared for your medical condition
- A list of all the medications you are currently taking
- All medical records that are currently in your possession, including lab and test results
- A comprehensive summary of your former profession and the tasks it entailed
- Your most recent tax information
If you are applying on behalf of a family member, you will need proof of their age and their social security number. If you are applying on behalf of your spouse, you will also need proof of marriage.
If your application is approved, your payments will be processed during the sixth full month following the date that the SSA received notification of your disability, and you will receive your first payment the following month. The amount you receive will depend on several factors, most notably, the total amount you have paid into the Social Security system during your professional career. However, if you are receiving workers’ compensation or other government benefits, this figure could be decreased. Therefore, it is imperative to enlist the help of a qualified attorney to ensure that you receive the maximum SSDI allotment based on your unique circumstances.
The Law Offices of George A. Malliaros Can Help You with SSDI Applications
If you are not already receiving Social Security Disability Income, if you have been denied these benefits and are looking to appeal, or if you feel that the benefits you are receiving are incommensurate with your status or living situation, please contact the Law Offices of George A. Malliaros. We can advise you about your rights, develop a legal strategy, and assist you through the confusing and arduous task of filing, appealing, or maintaining your SSDI status.
The Law Offices of George A. Malliaros have helped hundreds of individuals through this difficult process, and we would like to put our experience to work for you. Please call us today at (800) 856-4449 or complete this brief form in order to receive a free consultation during which we can discuss the particulars of your case and weigh your legal options.
