How to qualify for disability benefits
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In the United States, it’s said that millions of people are living with disabilities that make it difficult for them to perform day-to-day tasks or engage in full-time work. The social security disability benefits program was established and is administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to provide financial support to these individuals to help them to lead comfortable lives despite their circumstances.
However, understanding disability benefits’ complex guidelines and procedures can be challenging for those seeking to apply to avail of them. For instance, certain eligibility requirements should be met before one can qualify for the benefits. This post will guide you by providing information covering qualifying for disability benefits. Continue reading to learn more.
1. Inability to engage in a substantial gainful activity
One of the core eligibility requirements for disability benefits involves the inability to engage in a certain level of work, known as ‘substantial gainful activity’ or SGA. It’s a term used by the SSA to describe a certain level of work activity that’s considered to be gainful employment. To qualify for the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, you must show proof that you’re unable to engage in SGA.
Nevertheless, it’s essential to know that the amount of money calculated as SGA may vary. The SSA determines the financial threshold for this activity, which is adjusted annually based on inflation and other relevant factors. As of 2023, for instance, this threshold is USD$1,310 per month for non-blind individuals. The SGA limit for blind individuals is USD$2,460 per month.
Simply put, if you can earn more than this amount through working, you may not be eligible for disability benefits. On the other hand, there are a few exceptions to this rule. For example, you may still be eligible for benefits if you’re able to work only part-time or if your earnings are reduced due to impairment-related work expenses.
If you’re unsure whether your earnings exceed the substantial gainful activity limit, you can contact a Social Security lawyer to help estimate your eligibility for benefits.
2. Medical condition
Apart from SGA, you can determine your eligibility for disability benefits by evaluating your medical condition too. The SSA maintains a list of impairments, also known as the ‘Blue Book,’ that covers various categories of disabilities, both physical and mental. This comprehensive guide categorizes disabilities into fourteen main sections, including musculoskeletal problems, cardiovascular conditions, respiratory disorders, and mental disorders, to name a few.
If your medical condition is listed in the Blue Book, you need to meet the detailed criteria provided under the specific listing. Yet it’s important to note that even if your condition isn’t listed, you might still be eligible if your disability can be proven to be of equal severity to a medical condition that’s on the list. The SSA will consider the intensity and duration of your symptoms, the type of treatments you’ve undergone, and how your condition affects your ability to function.
Furthermore, the disability you claim must be long-term, meaning it has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months or is terminal. Short-term or partial disabilities generally don’t qualify for social security disability benefits.
3. Ability to do other work
If you can’t perform your previous work, the SSA will determine if there’s other work you could do despite your disability. In this case, the SSA will consider your age, education, and work experience to know whether you can be expected to adjust to other kinds of work. For example, the older you are, the less the SSA expects you to transition to new types of work or look for a new job, which can increase your chances of qualifying for benefits.
4. Non-medical requirements
While the medical criteria are the crux of the qualification process, the non-medical requirements are equally important. These involve your work history and your accumulated social security credits. Generally, you need to have earned 40 credits, 20 of which were earned in the last ten years ending with the year you become disabled. Nonetheless, younger workers may qualify with fewer credits.
What happens in the application for disability benefits
Navigating through the process of applying for disability benefits can be challenging. It’s recommended to gather all pertinent medical records, work history, and educational background documents to facilitate the application process. Additionally, it’s best to seek assistance from a professional who can provide expert advice and help navigate the complexities of your application.
Social Security Disability Claim Concept
On the other hand, even if you meet all the medical and non-medical requirements, approval isn’t always guaranteed. The SSA may deny your claim for various reasons. In case of denial, an appeals process is available, where you can request a reconsideration of your application, present your case to an administrative law judge, ask for a review by the Appeals Council, or even take your case to federal court.
Conclusion
While the journey towards qualifying for disability benefits can be complex, understanding the requirements and processes can make a significant difference.
By keeping the information mentioned above in mind, you can navigate the system wisely, present your case effectively, and ensure you’ve fulfilled all the necessary criteria for eligibility.
Consequently, the path towards securing disability benefits can become much less daunting with the help of professionals like disability attorneys and going the extra mile.
