(DailyAnswer.org) – If you’ve become disabled and can no longer work, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is one way to replace your income. Unfortunately, qualifying and applying for SSDI can be complicated. Here’s what applicants need to know to get started.
Who Qualifies for Social Security Disability?
There are two main factors the Social Security Administration looks at when deciding whether someone qualifies for benefits. First, you’ll need to have worked for a certain amount of time while paying into Social Security in order to be considered insured. Social Security uses a credit system in which workers earn up to four credits per year. The requirement breaks down to about 10 years of work, but you may qualify with fewer years if you’re younger. You’ll also need to have earned at least half of your credits within the last 10 years.
Social Security also uses a stricter definition of disability than other government programs or private insurance policies do. To qualify for SSDI, your disability needs to last at least one year and prevent you from working at all. Social Security considers whether you can perform substantial gainful activity (SDA), which is based on your monthly income. You won’t qualify if you’re able to earn more than the limit. You also won’t qualify for SSDI if you’re no longer able to work in your previous job but you could transition to a different career path.
How to Apply for SSDI
You can apply for SSDI online here, in person at your local Social Security office, or by phone at 1-800-772-1213. You’ll need to provide basic information about yourself and your spouse like Social Security numbers, and dates and locations of birth, as well as a bank account number.
You’ll need to provide details about your disability, including:
- Medical treatment records
- Medicines you’re taking
- Tests you’ve had and the name of the doctor who ordered them
- Contact information and treatment dates for all hospitals, doctors, and healthcare practices you’ve visited
You’ll also need information about your work history, including:
- Your income from the current and previous years
- Your current or most recent employer’s name and address
- The dates of any military service you performed
- Your job history for the last 15 years
- Any previous workers’ compensation claims you’ve filed
You’ll also need these forms and documents:
- Your birth certificate, and additional proof of citizenship if you weren’t born in the U.S.
- W-2s or self-employment tax returns from the previous year
- Documentation of any workers’ compensation you’ve received, like settlement agreements or pay stubs
- Any medical records you have access to
While it’s a good idea to gather as many of these documents as you can before you start the process, you don’t need to wait to file if you don’t have all of them.
What to Do if Your Application Is Denied
If your application is denied, you can file an appeal. You’ll start this process by asking for reconsideration either online or through your local Social Security office. You’ll have the opportunity to add any additional evidence you have. A medical expert and an examiner who wasn’t involved in the initial decision will review your case.
If your reconsideration is denied, your next two options are a hearing in front of an administrative law judge, followed by a meeting with Social Security’s Appeals Council. After a decision at each level, you’ll have 60 days to request an appeal. Applicants who have been denied are highly encourage to seek the advice of a SSDI attorney before filing an appeal.
Social Security Disability is a valuable resource for those who aren’t able to earn a living. The application process requires detailed information about your work history and your medical condition. It can also be slow, so it’s a good idea to file as soon as possible.
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