Understanding The SSDI Claims Process

Social Security defines a disability as someone who cannot carry out a “substantial amount of work” due to a mental or physical impairment that is likely to exceed 12 months and/or could lead to death. Social Security sees a person who makes at least 1,310 a month before taxes or $2,190 a month for blind people in 2021 as making substantial gainful activity.

A person who does not make this amount may qualify for SSI (Supplemental Security Income) or SSDI (Social Security Disability Income) benefits.

How To Know If Your Impairment Meets The Disability Definition

Social Security has the “Listing of Impairments” guide that details what mental/physical impairments qualify for disability. It includes an array of conditions, including depression, anxiety, arthritis, heart failure, stroke, etc. If you meet the requirements listed in this guide, you are guaranteed to be approved for disability.

Any disability applicant looking for approval of their application approval must have a severe medical condition that keeps them from making substantial gainful activity. However, the majority of people who apply for Social Security benefits must prove their disabling conditions are so severe that it is putting limitations on them doing any kind of substantial gainful activity.

Social Security will review your employment history to determine if you can carry out a substantial gainful activity. They will review your first job and then any job in the last 15 years. If they determine you are unable to do these types of jobs, the agency will then determine if there is any other kind of work you can do.

Social Security will also consider any limitations, your age, education level, and learned skills to make its evaluation.

For instance, a 59-year-old male who did not complete high school and is unable to perform previous work that involved heavy lifting would not be expected to do work outside his educational limitations. A person with a severe mood or mental impairment (depression, low IQ, anxiety, etc.) is unlikely to do work that involved a lot of concentration and attention to detail.

What You Should Do When Applying For Disability Benefits

When applying for disability benefits, be sure to include every single impairment, condition, and symptom. Provide a list of all doctors, clinics, and hospitals you have visited or were involved in your treatment. Make sure to include addresses and phone numbers as well.

In the Social Security Listing of Impairments guide, there are detailed criteria for approval of an array of medical conditions. Be sure your doctor understands them when providing statements for you. Explain to the doctor the limitations the conditions put on your daily activities, so this information is added to the medical records.

Attaining Social Security Benefits Without Medical Requirements 

A person looking to attain SSDI disability benefits needs to have paid Social Security payroll taxes for a certain period of time. Age is the deciding factor in determining the years required of paying payroll taxes. A person who is no longer working and paying their SS taxes must prove their disability started before the insured states concluded.

How To Appeal A Disability Denial

Most Social Security and SSI disability benefits are denied the first time out, making the appeals process necessary to attain your rightful benefits. Claims are typically denied because there is not enough information in your medical records that details the disability severity.

When an application is denied, you must appeal immediately and ensure all relevant medical information is documented in your file. Do not wait to reapply, as this could do you more harm than good. A reputable disability claims lawyer can assist you with what medical evidence is needed to win your appeal.

Get Help From A Disability Legal Advocate 

Once you receive the appeal’s notice of hearing, you should get legal help from a reputable disability attorney. They can guide and represent you during the appeals process. Most people hire a disability lawyer to assist them in winning their case. Be sure to find a reputable attorney in your state to help you with your disability appeals claim.