Who Qualifies for Social Security Benefits?

Qualifying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) requires claimants to meet a few important criteria. First, in order to receive SSDI benefits, social security must have covered your previous job. Second, you must have worked long enough and earned enough work credits to receive social security benefits. Lastly, for both programs, you must meet the government’s specific definition of “disability” as it relates to receiving benefits through social security.

The SSA’s Definition of “Disabled”

In relation to social security disability, the definition of disabled is very particular and differs from other government programs. What’s important to understand is that social security disability benefits only cover individuals who are fully disabled; they do not cover short-term disabilities.

In other words, the Social Security Administration determines a persons level of disability based on his or her ability to work. Generally, an applicant may qualify for social security disability benefits if they cannot perform Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) or find new work.

The program makes the assumption that those with shorter-term disabilities have access to funds through family, insurance, savings, investments and workers’ compensation. Therefore, your disability must last no less than one year, unless you are expected to pass away before then because of your disability.

How to Qualify for Social Security Benefits

To qualify for social security benefits, you must meet a few qualifying factors:

• Age
• Income
• Education
• Employment History
• Medical History
• Current Medical Care
• Current Medical Restrictions

Serious medical conditions automatically meet the “disability” requirements set by the SSA. However, if your limitation is not one of the listed conditions, the Social Security Administration may inquire into the nature of the disability to determine if you are eligible for benefits. For example, fibromyalgia is not an official qualifying diagnosis, according to the SSA; however, people with the condition may still qualify for benefits.

Depending on your age, education, skill set, current medical condition, and other factors, one other thing that will determine your eligibility is whether you have the potential to adapt to new work. If the SSA determines that you are unable to find employment, you may qualify for benefits.

Meeting the Requirements

You can expect to receive monthly benefits if you successfully meet the requirements for either Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security Income. It’s understandable that the process can be intimidating, but it’s there to make sure people with disabilities receive the support they need. For guidance, we can help you locate an experienced social security representative to make sure the paperwork is flawless and that your chances of being denied because of errors or missing information is minimized.

Need help gathering and submitting information to collect SSD Insurance or Supplemental Security Income benefits? Then contact us now by submitting a form online. After, you will be matched to a carefully screened attorney who focuses on claims/appeals/hearings for Social Security Disability benefits from your region for a case assessment. Additionally, they can provide you with an informed plan-of-action toward Social Security benefits and financial stability.