Who Can Get SSDI Benefits?

Who Can Get SSDI Benefits

Encountering a serious disability like neurological and mental health disorders that prevents you from working is a challenging experience. It is a tough reality that is faced by many people. Fortunately, there is a safety net that is designed to help individuals facing these challenges - Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).

If you are wondering whether you or someone you know might qualify for SSDI benefits, you are in the right place. In this blog, we will talk about who is eligible for Social Security Disability benefits and how you can determine if you meet the criteria.

What is SSDI?

Social Security disability insurance(SSDI) is a program that is run by the Social Security Administration (SSA). It provides financial assistance and support to individuals who are not able to work due to a severe disability. Unlike Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is based on financial need, SSDI is designed for people who have paid into the Social Security system through their work history.

Who Can Qualify for SSDI Benefits?

To qualify for SSDI benefits, you need to fulfill certain criteria. So, here is a breakdown of who can get the benefits of SSDI:

• Work History Requirements

To be eligible for SSDI, you generally need to have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain number of years. The SSA uses a system called "work credits" that later determines eligibility for Social Security Disability. You can earn work credits based on your annual earnings and can earn up to four credits per year. The number of credits needed depends on your age at the time you become disabled. For most people, you need to have at least 20 work credits earned in the last 10 years before your disability began.

• Medical Criteria

The SSA has strict medical criteria for SSDI eligibility, to clear the criteria, you must have a disability that is expected to last at least one year or, unfortunately, result in death. The disability must be severe enough to prevent you from performing any substantial gainful activity (SGA). In other words, your condition should make it impossible for you to do any kind of work that you did before. The SSA maintains a list of qualifying conditions that is known as "Blue Book" which includes various physical and mental disorders. And if your condition is not listed you can still qualify by proving that your disability is as severe as those listed.

• Non-Medical Requirements

Aside from medical and work history requirements, you also need to meet certain important non-medical criteria:

  • Age: There is no such specific age requirement for SSDI, but age can significantly impact your eligibility based on work credits.
  • Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or a legal resident.
  • Income and Assets: While SSDI benefits are not based on financial need, having any other income or asset does not affect your eligibility in any way. However, substantial income might affect your ability to qualify, if it suggests that you can still work.

• Spousal and Dependent Benefits

If you qualify for SSDI benefits, then your spouse and dependent children might also be eligible for benefits based on your record. This will help you and provide you with additional financial support for your family while you are unable to work. Through this, you will be able to ensure your family's financial security.

How to Apply for SSDI Benefits?

So, here we will guide you through different steps that will help you learn about the steps to applying for SSDI benefits:

  • Gather Documentation: You need to collect the necessary documents–which include your social security number, birth certificate, medical records, and information about your work history.
  • Complete the Application: You can apply online through the help of the SSA website, by phone, or in person at a Social Security office. The application will require detailed information about your medical condition and work history.
  • Wait for a Decision: The SSA will then review your application and might request additional information. The decision process might take several months, so being patient is very important in this case.
  • Appeal if Necessary: If your application is denied, you have all the rights to appeal the decision with the assistance of an experienced
    social security attorney in Sacramento. The appeal process involves several stages such as reconsideration, a hearing before an administrative law judge, and potentially further appeals.

Conclusion
It is really important to understand who is eligible to receive the SSDI benefits and how it works. Through this program, individuals who are not able to work due to a disability can make sure they get the financial support they need to assist their families financially. With the help of necessary documents and by following all the steps you can significantly access this benefit and secure future.