Eligibility for SSDI: All You Need to Know

The Social Security Administration lays out a strict set of guidelines that defines the eligibility criteria for SSDI benefits. Many people find it challenging to navigate through the guidelines, and as a result, get their benefits denied. That's why it's crucial to understand the criteria, or even better, to hire an SSDI benefits attorney to help you out at every step of the application process.

Let’s look at how you can qualify for SSDI benefits.

How Do I Qualify?

For you to qualify for the SSDI benefits, you should meet the following conditions:

· You should have worked in the job(s) covered under Social Security.

· You should have a serious medical condition that satisfies the definition of disability set out by Social Security.

Usually, Social Security pays monthly benefits to those who, due to their condition, couldn't work for more than a year. The benefits normally continue until the person can work again for a regular source of income. Other special rules, known as work incentives, also cover healthcare so that the person may transition back to work with ease.

The Amount of Work You Need

Other than satisfying the definition of disability set out by the SSA, the person must’ve been employed recently and for a specified duration under a Social Security employer that qualifies for SSD benefits.

Social Security calculates work credits based on the total yearly wages. A person can earn as much as four credits every year. The number of work credits needed varies. For instance, in 2022, a person can earn one credit for every $1,510 in income.

How much work credit a person needs depends on their age. Normally, 40 credits are needed, half of which should've been earned in the last ten years. But younger employees could qualify for a smaller number of credits.

What Does SSA Mean by Disability

First, no benefits are payable if the person is only partially disabled. SSA considers you disabled only when you meet the following conditions:

· You can’t engage in SGA or substantial gainful activity due to your medical conditions or the disability

· You can’t continue your previous work due to your medical conditions or the disability

· Your medical condition is expected to last for at least a year.

Many people aren't sure about the eligibility criteria of the Social Security Administration, and, as a result, get their claims denied. The Law Offices of Lisa Douglas can help them apply for disability benefits and increase their chances of approval. Lisa Douglas is a practicing social security disability lawyer in North Little Rock, AR, with a background in nursing.  

Lisa Douglas is also a personal injury and medical malpractice lawyer with legal expertise to defend your case. Contact her office today to learn more about her services.

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